William Eichler 09 April 2025

Universal theme park deal ‘landmark moment’

Universal theme park deal ‘landmark moment’  image
Image: Samar El Atrash / Shutterstock.com.

The agreement of a deal with Universal to open a new theme park in Bedford – billed as one of the largest in Europe – has been welcomed as a ‘landmark moment’.

The Government estimates the multi-million-pound park and resort will create 20,000 jobs during the construction period and a further 8,000 once it opens in 2031.

Mayor Tom Wootton described the decision as a ‘landmark moment for Bedford Borough.’

‘Universal’s decision to proceed with its theme park and resort in the UK brings exciting opportunities to our doorstep – thousands of jobs, new training and career paths, and a huge boost for local businesses.’

The project has received agreement in principle from the Government to move forward, pending planning approval for the 476-acre site.

Universal expects the site to generate nearly £50bn for the economy by 2055, with 8.5 million visitors expected in the first year.

Laura Church, chief executive of Bedford Borough Council, said the park and resort will be ‘one of the largest employers in the region.’

‘We have been working closely with Universal Destinations & Experiences for over two years, in partnership with national Government and regional stakeholders, and it’s great to see the progress made today.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior Social Worker - Adults Emergency Duty/Approved Mental Health Professional

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
£46,206 - £55,992
Senior Social Worker / Approved Mental ... Twickenham, Greater London
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

Care & Support Worker

West Northamptonshire Council
£13.52ph
36 hours per week (12 hours day shifts). Operating on a 4 week rolling rota. The current rota for this position does not include any weekend working. The team will provide quality care for our people, specialising in rehabilitation/reablement and sub-acu Northampton
Recuriter: West Northamptonshire Council

Graduate Trainee Emergency Planning and Resilience Consultant

Essex County Council
£27055.00 - £31829.00 per annum
Are you a Graduate, looking to become part of a crucial, efficient and high achieving team? England, Essex, Chelmsford
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Senior Finance Officer- Transactional Services

Essex County Council
£34121.00 - £40142.00 per annum
Senior Finance Officer- Transactional ServicesFixed Term, Full Time£34,121 up to £40,142 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Social Worker

Durham County Council
Grade 9 - £35,412 - £39,152 (pre-progression) / Grade 11 - £40,777 - £45,091 (post-progression)
Applications are invited for a Social Worker within the Durham and Chester le Street Locality Team, temporary until 30 September 2026 subject to the r Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner