Summary
The Universal Studios resort in Bedfordshire would be the first of its kind in Europe. It promises to bring thousands of opportunities, major transport upgrades and new public spaces. The company says it wants to build a long-term presence, based on work, access, and practical benefits to the region. The next step depends on Government planning approval. If granted, work will begin in 2026.
Universal Destinations & Experiences has confirmed its intention to build its first theme park in Europe. The project, located just south of Bedford in Kempston Hardwick, has moved from planning to pre-construction stage, with a planning application due to be submitted to the Government in the coming months. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, pending consent.
This will be the company’s first park in the UK, with themed areas, a hotel, restaurants, shops and a strong focus on jobs, transport and local involvement.
Where Will Europe’s Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park Be Built?
Europe’s Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park site lies south of Bedford town centre and includes land near Kempston Hardwick, Wixams, Stewartby and Wootton. It covers about 700 acres, including a former brickworks and land already marked for development. It is not part of the Green Belt. The site has good transport links, including rail access to London and the planned East West Rail connection.
The proposed Universal Studios Great Britain will be situated in Kempston Hardwick, Bedfordshire, approximately 3 miles south of Bedford town centre. The site encompasses around 700 acres, bordered by the A421 to the west, the Marston Vale railway line to the northeast, the Midland Main Line to the east, and Broadmead Road to the south. This location offers strong transport links, including proximity to major roads and existing rail lines.
Nearby train stations include Bedford Railway Station, which provides services to London and other major cities, and the planned Wixams station, intended to serve the development directly. In terms of air travel, London Luton Airport is the closest, situated approximately 25 miles to the south, offering both domestic and international flights.
A map highlighting the development area, nearby train stations, and airports can be viewed below:
What Will Europe’s Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park Include?
The plan includes:
- Several themed areas with rides and entertainment
- A 500-room hotel
- A public district for dining, shopping and live events
- New road and rail access
Universal has not yet confirmed the themes of the rides. However, their other parks include immersive areas based on films, TV shows and well-known stories. There will be a public area near the entrance where people can eat and shop without a park ticket. This is similar to CityWalk in their other resorts.
The buildings will vary in height. Most will be between 20 and 30 metres, with a few reaching up to 115 metres. Parking will be kept on site and include electric vehicle charging points.
What Makes This Bedfordshire Site Suitable For Europe’s Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park?
The Bedfordshire location was chosen for its size, flat ground, and good road and rail access. The UK has a large population, strong creative industries and over 38 million annual tourists. The Bedford site allows easy travel from London, Birmingham, and the wider region.
The area’s past as a brickmaking centre may be reflected in the design. Universal has said it will consider using local materials and themes from the region’s history.
Who Will Benefit From Europe’s Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park?
The Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park is expected to benefit Bedford, Luton, Central Bedfordshire, Milton Keynes and nearby villages including Kempston, Wixams and Wootton. Local jobs, transport access and business opportunities are central to the plan.
Universal expects to create about 8,000 jobs when the park opens, increasing to 10,000 within 20 years. Around 80% of these jobs are expected to go to people from the surrounding area. An extra 20,000 indirect jobs may be supported across the economy. Up to 5,000 workers will be on site during construction, which will run for about five to six years.
Universal says it will advertise jobs locally and offer training and apprenticeships, especially for young people. It plans to work with schools, colleges and employment schemes. The company also has a track record of education partnerships at its other sites.
How Will People Get To Europe’s Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park UK?
About 35% to 40% of visitors are expected to arrive by train. The site will benefit from the planned Wixams station and a new East West Rail station. About 10% will drive, with 25% coming as passengers. The rest will use buses, taxis or other transport.
A new slip road will link the A421 directly to the resort. Manor Road will be upgraded and a new bridge will replace the current level crossing. Walking and cycling routes will also be improved.
Visitor travel will be planned around peak times. Most guests arrive in the morning and leave in the evening, avoiding the rush hours. Universal says this matches off-peak train capacity and road traffic patterns.
What About Europe’s Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park Environmental Impact In The UK?
The park will include green spaces and tree planting. Universal says it will aim to meet LEED Gold Certification, which means building in a way that uses less energy, reduces waste, and avoids damage to water and wildlife. Thousands of trees will be planted. Buffers will separate the park from nearby areas.
There are plans to protect local wildlife areas like Kempston Hardwick Pit and Coronation Pit. Water bodies on site will be included in a flood control and drainage plan. Air quality, noise and lighting will also be assessed. The park will use inward-facing sound and lighting systems to keep disruption low. Waste will be sorted and managed through local authorities, with a focus on recycling and composting.
What About Accessibility To Europe’s Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park?
The park will include wide paths, ramps and step-free access throughout. Toilet blocks will include accessible facilities. Some rides will have seats for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. Assistive devices will be available for people with hearing or visual impairments. The company has also trained its staff in accessible service at its other parks, including sign language use and sensory guides.
How Will Europe’s Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park Construction Be Managed?
Construction is expected to begin in 2026 and take five to six years. The workforce will peak in year three, with about 5,000 people on site. Around 300 of these will be long-term Universal staff, and 500 more will be trained during construction to operate rides once the park opens.
Most workers will come from within a one-hour commute. Some specialised work may require staff from further afield, including overseas. Housing may be needed for short-term staff during construction.
A traffic management plan will control construction access. No site traffic will be allowed through Stewartby or similar villages. The main entry during early works will be from Woburn Road.
What Infrastructure Will Be Delivered In Europe’s Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park?
The park will support several upgrades:
- Construction of Wixams railway station
- A new station on the East West Rail line
- Direct slip roads from the A421
- An upgraded Manor Road and new bridge
- Improved paths and cycling routes
Universal will work with Network Rail, National Highways and central Government to deliver these upgrades.
What Has the Public Said About Europe’s Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park?
More than 6,000 people took part in public engagement in 2024. According to Universal, 92% supported the proposal. Feedback is being considered as part of the planning submission.
The Government has shown support for the scheme. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport is acting as sponsor. A special development order may be used to approve the project.
What Happens Next—Europe’s Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park Project?
A formal planning application will be submitted to the Government in 2025. If approved, construction would begin in 2026. The park could open around 2031.
Universal will continue to update residents through its website:
Bedfordshire’s Universal Destinations & Experiences Theme Park’s Major Economic and Regional Impact
Universal has stated that the project is expected to bring £50 billion in direct and indirect economic benefit to the UK over time. The development will:
- Become one of the largest single employers in Bedfordshire
- Attract millions of visitors, boosting local and national tourism
- Strengthen the UK’s creative industries by adding a new major destination
- Invest billions in private funds, which may lead to wider business investment
- Help trigger long-needed infrastructure projects in the region
These include the expansion of Wixams railway station, direct slip roads from the A421, and upgrades to local road networks and active travel routes. Universal also plans to play an ongoing role in local community partnerships, building on its work in other regions where it operates.
Photos Of Europe’s Universal Theme Park In Bedfordshire
