Bedford Borough Council is celebrating a ‘key milestone’ following the Government’s decision to grant planning permission for Universal’s theme park proposals.

The council confirmed yesterday that the Government had granted planning permission for the scheme through a Special Development Order (SDO), following the agreement of the deal with Universal in April.

A letter written by Page Thompson, President of New Ventures, Universal Destinations & Experiences, proposes that 80% of the estimated 28,000 jobs to be created through the project will be allocated to local workers.

Mr Thompson also noted that the statutory parliamentary review period is yet to be completed but confirmed that the company will share progress updates over the coming months, such as information about job vacancies and possible opportunities for local businesses and suppliers.

Commenting on the news, Tom Wootton, Mayor of Bedford Borough, said: ‘It’s one of the proudest moments of my political life.’

‘This is a huge vote of confidence in Bedford and Kempston, in the borough and region, and in the council. This is the perfect place for this investment, well-connected, full of talent, and ready to grow.

‘I know that our residents and businesses will seize all the opportunities that this will offer us, and I’ll work with Universal night and day to ensure our partnership can continue to bloom.’

Bedford Borough Council Chief Executive, Laura Church, said: ‘This truly puts Bedford on the map, as a global destination for tourism, creativity and innovation for generations to come.'

She added: 'The millions of visitors each year will offer possibilities for our economy and our residents in hospitality, retail, technology and so much more.’