Universal Studios’ New Theme Park Set to Attract More Visitors Than London’s Top Ten Attractions

A new Universal Studios theme park slated for Bedford is projected to draw more visitors than any of London’s premier attractions, as revealed in a recent report by the local council. During a special meeting held this month, Bedford Borough Council members received an in-depth update on the development of the theme park in Kempton, Bedfordshire, which is set to officially open its doors in May 2031. The ambitious project will feature a 500-room hotel, along with a variety of retail, dining, and nightlife options.

The report forecasts that the theme park will attract approximately 8 million visitors in its inaugural year, with that figure expected to rise to 12 million annually within two decades. This influx of visitors would surpass the attendance figures of the ten most popular UK attractions in 2025, all of which are located in London. For context, attractions such as the Natural History Museum, which welcomed 7.1 million visitors, and the British Museum, with 6.4 million, would be outperformed by the new park.

Job Creation and Economic Impact

The development is anticipated to create 20,000 jobs during the construction phase, with an additional 8,000 permanent roles once the theme park commences operations. Planning permission for the project was granted by the Department for Housing, Communities and Local Government through a special development order in December of the previous year, following the government’s approval of the expansion of nearby Luton Airport around eight months earlier.

Patrick Lyons, the manager for strategic sites and inward investment, provided insights into the project’s location, stating: “We are discussing a 460-acre site to the south of Bedford near the A421 at Kempston Hardwick, on land that was previously owned by London Brick.” He further noted that Universal Studios acquired the land some years ago and received planning permission just last year.

Boosting Local and National Tourism

The report highlighted significant economic projections, estimating a £50 billion contribution to the UK economy. It aims to deliver a substantial boost to both local and national tourism while invigorating the UK’s creative industries by establishing the first Universal theme park in Europe. Enhancements to regional transport infrastructure are also part of the plan, with a focus on high-speed rail links to London, expected to reduce travel time to just 39 minutes. This includes the construction of a new four-platform train station in Wixams, scheduled between 2027 and 2030, as well as improvements to the existing Kempston Hardwick station.

Furthermore, new slip roads along the A421 will be constructed, along with local road upgrades. Lyons remarked, “We are collaborating with one of the largest companies in the world on this project, a firm with extensive expertise and the capability to engage positively with the local community. They have demonstrated their success in launching similar resorts globally.”

Strategic Investment Initiatives

Bedford Borough Council intends to leverage the Universal investment to enhance local spending and explore avenues for stimulating further private sector investment within the area. Initial steps in the development process will involve the removal of deep-clay pits from the former brickworks, the installation of a modern drainage system, and the implementation of green infrastructure in preparation for the construction of the theme park’s core zone.

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