Universal Studios Theme Park In Beijing (Image: Getty)

       A massive new state-of-the-art theme park is to be built in Bedfordshire. The Universal theme park is set to open in 2031 with rides, live shows and plenty to eat and rink. It is expected to create 28,000 jobs in total across creative, hospitality and construction industries, with an expected 8.5 million visitors in its first year.

       Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is claiming the decision to go ahead with the park as a coup for the Government, as it follows negotiations with Universal Destinations & Experiences which already runs parks in Orlando, Beijing and Osaka, Japan. The Government will help by improvidng infrastructure such as road and other transport links near the park, on a 476-acre parcel of land just south of Bedford.

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       But the park is also likely to be welcomed by families looking for a fun day out, as similar venues in other parts of the world have already proven to be a hit.

       Universal has not revealed what it plans to build at the park but it will have a number of themed “worlds”. Other Universal parks include a Harry Potter land, which is likely to feature in any British version of the park. Overseas parks have also included areas based on Minions, Jurassic Park, Nintendo characters and the musical Wicked.

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       Popular rides in Orlando include the Jurassic World VelociCoaster while the Beijing venue invites visitors to “soar above Hogwarts” on the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride.

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       Proposed plans from Universal Destinations & Experiences, a business unit of Comcast, include a world-class theme park with several themed lands all utilising sophisticated and advanced technology as well as a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining and entertainment complex.

       Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “Today we closed the deal on a multi-billion-pound investment that will see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage.

       “This is our Plan for Change in action, combining local and national growth with creating around 28,000 new jobs across sectors such as construction, AI, and tourism.

       “It is not just about numbers; it’s about securing real opportunities for people in our country. Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK, getting people into work and ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive.”

       The development, working with Bedford Borough Council, will be the first Universal-branded theme park and resort destination in Europe and will be part of a larger 476-acre entertainment resort complex.

       Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said: “Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity and is part of our strategy to introduce the Universal brand and experiences to new audiences around the globe. We appreciate the incredible support for our proposed project and look forward to bringing it to life in the years ahead.”

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       Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “From Wicked to Minions, Universal is behind some of the biggest blockbusters of recent years.

       “This landmark investment is fantastic news for our economy, for UK tourism and for the British public, who will be able to enjoy the biggest and best theme park in Europe on their doorstep.

       “As well as providing brilliant days out, it will open up exciting new job opportunities for young people in Bedfordshire and beyond, ranging from construction to the creative industries.”