4th ‘Harry Potter’ Expansion Announced by Universal as Shocking Wait Times Scare Away Guests
Will It Be Enough?
Universal reveals a 4th addition to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, coming soon, with a ground breaking set for 2026, as new permits have just been revealed.
Epic Universe’s Next Major Development Quietly Moves Forward Behind the Scenes
Theme park development rarely pauses, even when a project as massive as Epic Universe has just opened its gates. In fact, sometimes the most meaningful shifts occur not with ribbon cuttings or grand openings, but buried inside routine municipal paperwork. A seemingly standard construction permit—submitted, updated, and nudged into review this month—has sparked significant interest among industry observers.
Why? Because the details inside it suggest Universal Orlando Resort is already making measurable moves to shape the future of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Epic Universe. But the deeper meaning isn’t in the permit itself. It’s in the timing.
A Permit That Points Directly Toward Wizarding World Expansion
Filed last month through Orange County, the permit requests authorization for “New Construction” specifically involving “Site Utilities and Foundation Work” at 1001 Epic Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, the core address of Epic Universe.
Ordinarily, these filings reference details that help decode the type of construction—structural engineering, tree removal, or elevation changes. This one, however, notably excludes truss engineering and tree removal, a clue that the work may involve infrastructure adjustments rather than a towering new show building.
New permit calls for utilities and foundation work at Epic Universe for a 150,000sqft addition. Could this be Epic Universe’s first attraction expansion? – @BehindThrills on X
New permit calls for utilities and foundation work at Epic Universe for a 150,000sqft addition. Could this be Epic Universe's first attraction expansion? pic.twitter.com/PiAXJuV8Pk
— Behind the Thrills (@BehindThrills) November 7, 2025
The defining detail came later: a new notation stating the project is “Located within Area P905.”
Within Universal’s internal development terminology, P905 corresponds to the Ministry of Magic area of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Immediately, the focus shifted. Whatever this structure is, it is either inside the existing Wizarding World footprint or directly adjacent to it.
The permit spans 150,000 square feet, roughly matching the land’s current scale. Universal also has expansion room between the Wizarding World and the Universal Grand Helios Hotel, leaving the door open for growth in either direction.
Why This Development Suggests a Strategic Crowd-Flow Plan
The Wizarding World at Epic Universe—particularly Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry—has already experienced extraordinary demand. During peak periods, the attraction has seen waits climb to 6–8 hours, a level that stresses both guest satisfaction and operational logistics.
Universal has demonstrated remarkable agility in its first months of Epic Universe operations, adapting guest-flow procedures and queue management strategies as needed. This new permit appears to continue that adaptive approach.
New permit calls for utilities and foundation work at Epic Universe for a 150,000sqft addition. Could this be Epic Universe’s first attraction expansion? – @BehindThrills on X
New permit calls for utilities and foundation work at Epic Universe for a 150,000sqft addition. Could this be Epic Universe's first attraction expansion? pic.twitter.com/PiAXJuV8Pk
— Behind the Thrills (@BehindThrills) November 7, 2025
If Universal is preparing to expand capacity, adjust pathways, reinforce infrastructure, or modify internal support spaces, the underlying goal is likely clear: prevent future crowding scenarios from reaching critical levels again.
This aligns with a broader operational strategy: ensuring the Wizarding World remains the anchor guest experience at Epic Universe without overburdening park systems.
Leadership Hints Align With the Permit’s Implications
Universal leadership has not been shy about plans for continued development. Even before Epic Universe opened in May, President and COO Karen Irwin noted:
“We’re already planning for the next thing at Epic.”
That statement signaled a long-term, evolutionary vision for the new park—one that relies on constant assessment and expansion rather than reactive fixes.
This newest development filing appears to match that philosophy. Rather than wait for patterns to stabilize or for crowd challenges to intensify, Universal is reinforcing the Ministry of Magic footprint proactively.
What This Means for Epic Universe’s Next Phase
While the permit does not specify an attraction or expansion outright, its scale, location, and designation collectively point to meaningful change ahead. It suggests a commitment to enhancing infrastructure, supporting operational needs, and strengthening land capacity—all of which influence the guest experience.
For industry professionals, the story here is about planning strategy. Universal understands the sustained demand for the Wizarding World and appears to be ensuring that operational strains like the early 6–8 hour ministry waits are not repeated.
Epic Universe may be brand-new, but this permit proves its growth trajectory is already underway.
