Universal’s planned theme park in Bedfordshire has received approval from the UK government, clearing the way for construction to begin.
Mohammad Yasin, Labour MP for Bedford and Kempston, confirmed the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government had granted permission for the resort to be built in Kempston Hardwick, near Bedford.
Universal secured approval through a special development order (SDO), which allows central government to greenlight projects directly without going through standard local planning procedures.
Putting Bedford on the Map
Tom Wootton, Mayor of Bedford Borough described the news as “one of the proudest moments of my political life.”
He said: “I’d love to take all the credit for this – but I can’t! This is the result of so much hard work by so many people, and it will be something that has a huge, positive impact on countless lives even when I’m long forgotten. It’s one of the proudest moments of my political life.”
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… When the resort opens it will be one of the largest employers in the region, and it is expected that approximately 80% of employees will come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton & Milton Keynes. Universal want to work with our residents and our businesses.”
Universal Great Britain Rides and Attractions
Earlier this year, Universal released concept art for the future park, leading fans to speculate about which attractions and franchises would be featured. Back to the Future and the Minions are frontrunners so far, with much speculation over a Wizarding World land.
The entertainment company expects the park to attract more than eight million visitors annually once it opens by 2031. Universal Great Britain will be the company’s first European theme park resort.
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