Universal Studios theme park Bedford FAQs

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Europe’s first Universal-branded entertainment resort is coming to Bedfordshire.

Universal Destinations & Experiences, part of Comcast NBCUniversal, is building its first-ever Universal-branded theme park and resort in the United Kingdom, located in Bedford, Bedfordshire. The entertainment resort complex will feature a world-class theme park with several themed lands, visitor accommodation, and a range of retail, dining and entertainment uses.

It will be the first Universal-branded theme park in both the UK and Europe.

Has planning permission been granted?

Yes. In December 2025, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) approved Universal’s request for planning permission to be granted by way of making a Special Development Order (SDO). The proposal was sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

While there are still further steps to complete, including a statutory parliamentary review period, this represents a major milestone for the project.

When will construction start and when will it open?

On-site activity began gradually increasing following the December 2025 planning decision. Road improvement works associated with the project are already under way in the Bedford area in 2026. Universal indicated that construction was projected to begin in 2026, subject to planning approval being finalised.

A specific opening date has not yet been announced. Check universalukproject.co.uk for the latest updates.

What rides and experiences can we expect?

Universal has not yet released details of specific attractions, rides or themed lands. The resort will feature Universal’s signature style of immersive storytelling, thrilling rides and innovative entertainment across several themed lands.

Universal’s existing parks around the world at Orlando, Hollywood, Japan and Singapore‚ give a flavour of what a UK resort might offer, but specific details for the Bedford site will be shared in due course.

What accommodation will be available at the resort?

Initial resort plans include a 500-room hotel on site, alongside the theme park, a retail complex, dining and wider entertainment facilities. Further details on hotel brands, room types and booking information have not yet been released.

How will I get there? What transport improvements are planned?

The project will help deliver several significant local transport upgrades, including the expansion of Wixams railway station, new direct slip roads from the A421, and upgrades to Manor Road and the Active Travel Network. These improvements have support from National Highways and Network Rail.

Universal has also committed to low-carbon transport options, including one of the UK’s largest EV charging facilities and a fleet of electric or low-carbon vehicles to transfer guests from local railway stations to the resort.

How many jobs will the resort create?

The project is expected to create 20,000 jobs during the construction phase, with more than 5,000 workers on site at peak construction. Once operational, the resort will provide around 8,000 permanent jobs, making it one of the largest employers in the region.

Approximately 80% of employees are expected to come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes. Opportunities in apprenticeships, training and education are also planned for the wider community.

What is the economic benefit for the region?

Universal estimates the resort will generate nearly £50 billion of direct and indirect economic benefit for the UK. It will be a major contributor to the tourism and creative industries, attracting millions of new visitors to the region each year and boosting local businesses and supply chains.

Will the resort be environmentally sustainable?

Sustainability is central to the project’s design. ESP Utilities Group has been appointed to deliver key green infrastructure, including a new water treatment facility designed to re-use and recycle water on site, an all-electric central energy plant to provide low-carbon heating and cooling, and enhanced surface water drainage to reduce local flood risk.

The project is designed to align with the UK’s net-zero 2050 trajectory, and the low-carbon energy plant has the potential to serve surrounding communities beyond the resort itself.

How can I register my interest in working at the resort?

You can register your interest in future job opportunities via the Universal UK Project website. Categories include park and resort operations, entertainment, food and beverage, construction, creative, finance, technology, HR, marketing and more. You can also check www.nbcunicareers.com/find-a-job for live roles as they are advertised.

Where can local businesses find out about supplier opportunities?

Local businesses interested in working with Universal on the project can register their details via the Universal UK Project website. Universal has encouraged local companies to get in touch and has expressed a commitment to working with regional suppliers and businesses throughout the construction and operational phases.

Are there any current road closures related to the project?

Yes. Early infrastructure works are already underway. Current planned closures include Broadmead Road (closed between Woburn Road junction and Hansons Reach Roundabout from 11 May to 12 June 2026), with temporary traffic management in place from 27 April. Woburn Road will also be closed from 8pm on Friday 5 June to 5am on Monday 8 June 2026, with traffic diverted via the A421.

Residents within closure areas will have a dedicated attendant escort to and from their properties. For the latest traffic updates, sign up for construction updates at universalukproject.co.uk.

How do I get in touch or find out more

Content accurate as of April 2026. All figures and timelines are subject to change.