Universal’s UK ambitions are taking shape. On June 25, Universal Destinations & Experiences released a new letter confirming its intent to develop a sprawling new entertainment destination in Bedfordshire, tentatively referred to as Universal Great Britain.
Though the project is still in the planning phase, Universal shared its vision for the location: a world-class theme park featuring multiple themed lands, accommodations, and a wide array of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.
This bold plan isn’t just a major step for Universal—it could have a sweeping effect on the UK economy. According to the letter, the project is expected to deliver nearly £50 billion in economic benefit and create 28,000 jobs, with approximately 80% of the workforce drawn from nearby communities including Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes.
In late 2023, the Bedford Independent confirmed that Universal’s parent company, Comcast, had acquired a significant property in Bedfordshire. The news came shortly after Orlando Park Stop uncovered early indications that Universal was preparing for overseas expansion.
Since then, Universal launched a dedicated UK project website. Visitors can view an aerial image of the property, read FAQs, and find a summary of the development process. Universal emphasized on the site that while it owns the land, the project is still being evaluated: “We are at the very early stages of exploring its feasibility for a potential resort and park experience.” The company stressed that a final decision would come after more planning, community conversations, and securing the necessary approvals.
Universal has prioritized transparency and local collaboration. Letters sent to residents emphasized both economic opportunity and environmental responsibility. “We are committed to enhancing natural beauty and protecting the ecology of the areas where we operate,” the company said. They also affirmed, “Theme parks create thousands of jobs and generate significant positive economic impact.”
Speaking with Bedford Independent, Universal reaffirmed its community-first approach: “We support Bedford’s vision of becoming a prosperous place to live, work, and visit,” the statement read. “We take a proactive approach to partnering with local communities and stakeholders, like Bedford Borough Council.”
One particularly telling update: Universal shared that more than thousands of local residents engaged with the project in 2024, with 92% voicing their support, a major milestone as the resort concept continues to move forward.
Although Universal hasn’t revealed specific attractions, speculation from fans has already begun. Popular properties such as Lord of the Rings, Paddington, James Bond, and Back to the Future have surfaced as possible themed experiences.
Should Universal Great Britain become a reality, it would join a prestigious global portfolio including Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan, Universal Studios Singapore, Universal Beijing Resort, and Universal Orlando Resort—home to the brand-new Epic Universe, which features lands inspired by Nintendo, Classic Monsters, and How to Train Your Dragon.
Universal’s global expansion continues elsewhere as well. In 2023, Comcast reported a $271 million investment in new land purchases for future themed developments. In the U.S., the company is building the Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, and creating a new horror-focused attraction called Universal Horror Unleashed, set to debut first in Las Vegas before opening a second location in Chicago.
Guests can track all developments around Universal Great Britain at the official project site, which will continue to update with news, FAQs, and community resources as the destination takes shape.
Stay tuned for more on Universal’s growing footprint around the world.
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