A new multi-billion pound theme park complex coming to Bedfordshire has officially been named as the Universal United Kingdom Resort.
The project will be developed by Comcast NBCUniversal's Universal Destinations & Experiences sector and is the brand’s first major destination in the UK and Europe.
The 500-acre resort in Kempston Hardwick, just south of Bedford, is expected to attract more than eight million visitors a year.
Now, Comcast NBCUniversal has announced plans to invest over £5billion in the entertainment resort complex during the expected five years of construction, as well as an additional £1billion in capital investment over the first 10 years of operation.
Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy said: "This unparalleled investment is a huge vote of confidence in the UK and puts rocket boosters under our entertainment industry.
“When it comes to creating world class experiences, the UK is second to none. We're proud to be backing British industry, investing in local talent and partnering with powerhouses like Universal to create jobs, growth and opportunities across the UK."
Chairman of Comcast Corporation Brian Roberts added: "This historic partnership is a special moment for our company as we bring our first Universal theme park and resort to Europe.
"We have a long and proud history in the United Kingdom through Sky and NBCUniversal and look forward to creating a spectacular destination that supports the UK creative industries and brings joy to millions for generations to come."
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves confirmed the name at the future site of the park
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The Treasury has confirmed 100 people in the UK have been employed to work on the project, with Universal receiving expressions of employment interest from over 33,000 individuals.
A spokesman added approximately 80 per cent of employees at the theme park and resort are expected to come from Bedfordshire and the surrounding regions.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: "This landmark investment in the heart of the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor will unlock nearly £50billion of economic growth and create tens of thousands of jobs across Bedfordshire in construction, hospitality, creative and technology sectors.
"Our own investment in transport and infrastructure means that local people will benefit, improving connectivity, backing our creative industries, and bringing millions of visitors to the UK from across the world. We have the right economic plan, working with global investors and local leaders so we can deliver jobs, opportunity and long‑term prosperity for Britain."
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Chancellor Rachel Reeves with Mark Woodberry, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Universal Destinations & Experiences at the site
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The development is due to be the eighth Universal Studios Resort, and the first new resort in Europe since NBCUniversal sold Universal Mediterranea, now PortAventura in Salou, near Tarragona, in 2004.
The resort will occupy a former brickworks site, selected due to its transport connections including nearby rail services and proximity to London Luton Airport.
The site was originally set to be developed into 1,000 new homes after last of its 167 chimneys were demolished in 2021.
Planning documents published in July revealed proposals for structures reaching 377ft, which would make them the tallest rides anywhere in Europe.
The site, a former brickworks, will feature attractions likely based on Universal's popular franchises | UNIVERSALThe Department for Transport also confirmed plans to go ahead with plans to upgrade the strategic road and rail network, on the A421 and at Wixams station, at an expected cost of £474million.
Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences Mark Woodbury said: "Today marks a significant milestone on our journey to bring Universal United Kingdom Resort, featuring immersive storytelling, thrilling attractions and unparalleled creativity and innovation to the UK.
"This new theme park and resort will create so many new opportunities for the people of Bedford and beyond and allow us to share our distinct experiences with guests from around the world.”