Universal Studios has confirmed Bedford – north of London and close to London-Luton Airport – as the long-anticipated UK destination for what will be its first European-based theme park.
Universal – and its parent, US multimedia giant Comcast – have struck a deal with the UK Government for the development, which will open in the early 2030s and bring in an estimated 8.5 million visitors in its first year.
At around 436 acres, it is set to be one of the largest theme parks in Europe.
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.”
Comcast/Universal have been in talks with the UK Government since last year regarding potential developments. Universal UK will follow on from Japan, China and Singapore in terms of the entertainment giant’s non-US-based parks.
