Universal Theme Park and Resort in Bedford Granted Planning Permission

Plans for the first-ever Universal-branded theme park and resort in the United Kingdom and Europe have taken a major step forward after the UK government granted planning permission for the landmark development. The approval was issued through a Special Development Order (SDO), signalling strong government support for the project and allowing it to bypass the traditional planning process.

The decision, confirmed on Tuesday 16 December 2025, was approved by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and represents a significant milestone in Universal Destinations & Experiences’ plans to establish a major entertainment resort in Bedford.

Special Development Order Secures Planning Permission

By approving the project through an SDO, the government has effectively granted planning permission at a national level. This approach is typically reserved for developments considered to be of strategic importance and removes the need for a lengthy local planning process, helping major infrastructure and economic projects progress more efficiently.

While a statutory parliamentary review period must still take place, the approval clears one of the most significant regulatory hurdles facing the project and enables Universal to move forward with the next stages of development.

Bedford to Host Universal’s First European Theme Park

Under the approved plans, Bedford will become home to Universal’s first theme park and resort in both the UK and Europe. The resort will form part of a large-scale entertainment complex featuring a world-class theme park, hotels, and supporting infrastructure, positioning the region as a major international tourism destination.

Universal Destinations & Experiences, which operates globally recognised theme parks in the United States, Japan, and China, has described the development as a transformative project for both the local area and the country as a whole.

Major Economic and Employment Benefits

The Universal Bedford project is expected to deliver substantial economic benefits, with estimates suggesting up to £50 billion in direct and indirect economic impact over its lifetime. The scale of the investment is anticipated to provide a major boost to the UK’s tourism, hospitality, and creative industries.

Employment creation is set to be one of the project’s most significant benefits. Around 20,000 jobs are expected to be created during the construction phase, with a further 8,000 permanent roles once the resort becomes operational. Universal has indicated that approximately 80% of all jobs will be filled by local workers, reinforcing the project’s long-term value to the region.

Transport and Infrastructure Improvements

The development will also support key infrastructure upgrades in and around Bedford. Planned improvements include the expansion of Wixams railway station and the construction of new direct slip roads from the A421, helping to improve connectivity and manage increased visitor numbers.

These upgrades are expected to benefit local residents and businesses in addition to supporting the operational needs of the theme park and resort.

Universal Welcomes Government Support

In a statement, Page Thompson, President of New Ventures at Universal Destinations & Experiences, welcomed the decision and thanked both government bodies and local communities for their ongoing engagement.

He described the approval as “another important milestone” for the project and expressed appreciation for the enthusiasm and feedback shown by Bedford residents, neighbouring communities, and national and local stakeholders. Universal also confirmed its commitment to sharing further updates in the coming months, including information on job opportunities and ways local businesses and suppliers may work with the company.

What Happens Next

Although planning permission has now been granted, several procedural steps remain, including the parliamentary review period required for Special Development Orders. Once these are complete, Universal will be able to advance toward construction and more detailed announcements regarding timelines and future phases of development.

In the meantime, Universal has encouraged the public to follow updates via the project’s official website, universalukproject.co.uk.

A Landmark Moment for UK Tourism

The approval of Universal’s UK theme park and resort marks one of the most significant leisure and tourism developments in the country in decades. If delivered as planned, the project has the potential to reshape the UK’s entertainment landscape, attract millions of visitors from around the world, and establish Bedford as a major global destination.

As momentum builds, attention will now turn to the next stages of development—and the long-term impact this ambitious project could have on the region and the wider UK economy.