Universal seeks permission to build UK theme park near Bedford

Universal has formally submitted a planning permission request to the government for its first-ever UK theme park.

The company has asked the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) for permission “to be granted by way of a Special Development Order (SDO)” at a site near Bedford.

A Universal spokesperson said the request was for “an entertainment resort complex featuring a world-class theme park with several themed lands, visitor accommodation, as well as a range of retail, dining and entertainment uses”.

It added that the development would have a “transformative impact on Bedford and the UK economy” generating nearly “£50bn of economic benefit and create 28,000 jobs”.

“At opening, the entertainment resort complex would be one of the largest employers in the region, with approximately 80% of employees expected to come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes,” Universal said.

Rather than applying to the local planning authority, the company has submitted a Special Development Order directly to the government, sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

The order allows the MHCLG to be the planning decision maker, while seeking input and representations from various bodies.

Universal said it had included statements on environment, planning, and design and access in the submission.

It said the project would also “help deliver several long sought after transportation upgrades” including an expanded Wixams railway station, direct slip roads from the A421 and other local road improvements.

“The past year has enabled us to closely engage with Bedford Borough Council, neighbouring authorities, national government, transport and environmental bodies and local communities,” it said.

Earlier this month, Universal launched an online form for people to register their interest in future job opportunities at the park.

It said thousands of residents had participated in its engagement in April 2024, with 92% expressing support for the plans, which, it said, “we appreciate and played a key role in us moving forward with the project”.

However, specific details about rides and activities will not be outlined yet, as “it is still too early in the process to know the possibilities of featured attractions and experiences”, the company said.

Details of where the plans can be seen and how to make a representation would be available in due course, it added.

The leader of Central Bedfordshire Council, which is the neighbouring local authority, Adam Zerny said: “We as a council will be working very hard over the coming weeks to make sure that every member of the public that wants to comment, knows about it and has the opportunity to have their say.”

Subject to planning consent, Universal said it aimed to start construction in 2026.