Universal Studios is officially crossing a historic threshold. For the first time in its decades-long history, the entertainment giant is preparing to open a full-scale theme park in Europe—and the chosen destination is Bedford, England.
After years of speculation about where Universal might expand next, the answer is now clear. Comcast, Universal’s parent company, has secured government approval for a vast resort development that will bring one of the world’s most recognizable theme park brands to the UK. The project was greenlit through a special development order, a rare process that allows the national government to approve major infrastructure projects while bypassing standard local planning procedures.
Government Approval Clears the Way
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government formally approved the plans on Tuesday, December 16. Construction is scheduled to begin on January 12, 2026, with Bedford—approximately 46 miles northwest of London—set to become the home of Universal’s European debut.
Local leaders quickly praised the decision. Bedford MP Mohammad Yasin described the approval as a “landmark moment” for both the town and the wider region, emphasizing that the impact of the project would be “transformational” and felt for generations.
Universal itself has hinted at the scale of ambition behind the resort, previously stating that the park will be “unlike anything that exists in the UK.”
A Massive Resort on an Even Bigger Scale
The numbers behind the project underscore just how significant the development will be. Spanning an estimated 662 acres, the Universal Studios Bedford resort will extend far beyond traditional theme park rides.
Current plans include:
- A full-scale theme park with signature attractions
- Multiple on-site hotels
- Retail and dining districts
- Sports and conference facilities
- Extensive landscaping and new utility infrastructure
Given the scope of the build, patience will be required. The resort is currently projected to open in 2031, following several years of construction and development.
Economic Impact Set to Reshape the Region
Government estimates suggest the project will deliver a major economic boost to Bedford and surrounding areas. Once operational, the resort is expected to draw between 8.5 and 12 million visitors each year. During construction, nearly 20,000 jobs could be created, with an additional 8,000 permanent roles anticipated after opening.
Bedford mayor Tom Wootton called the approval one of the defining moments of his political career, noting that the project’s positive influence would endure long into the future.
“This is the result of so much hard work by so many people,” he said, adding that the development would have a lasting impact on countless lives.
Bedford Borough Council’s chief executive, Laura Church, echoed that sentiment, highlighting the project’s global significance.
“This truly puts Bedford on the map as a global destination for tourism, creativity and innovation for generations to come,” she said, adding that the resort will become one of the region’s largest employers once it opens.
Universal’s Momentum Continues
The European announcement arrives during a period of rapid expansion for Universal. Just months ago, the company celebrated the opening of Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort in Florida, reinforcing its commitment to large-scale, immersive entertainment experiences.
With Bedford now confirmed as Universal’s European foothold, the UK is poised to become a central player in the future of global theme park tourism—and the countdown to 2031 has officially begun.
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