Universal Studios announced on Wednesday that it will build its first European theme park in Bedfordshire, England, set to open in 2031. The sprawling resort, officials said, will merge iconic American franchises like Jurassic Park with beloved British characters such as Paddington Bear, Doctor Who, and Harry Potter.
The yet-to-be-named theme park is expected to become Britain’s largest single tourist attraction. At 476 acres, the complex will feature themed areas, rides, a 500-room hotel, shops, and dining options, according to Comcast, Universal’s parent company.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the announcement a significant boost to the country’s economy. “Today we closed the deal on a multibillion-pound investment that will see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe,” he said in a statement. The project is also expected to generate around 28,000 jobs in the region, Starmer added.
The theme park is projected to bring in nearly $64 billion (£50 billion) in revenue to the area by 2055, presenting a rare economic bright spot for a country struggling with slow growth. However, officials cautioned that it will take years to transform the 476-acre site, located about 35 minutes north of London by train, into a fully operational theme park.
The delay adds a layer of uncertainty to the project, reminiscent of past setbacks with similar ventures. In the late 1980s, London was considered a location for Euro Disneyland, but the idea was ultimately scrapped. Disney’s proposal for a “Disney’s America” park near Washington, D.C. in 1994 also faltered after public backlash. More recently, a 2012 proposal for The London Resort faced environmental concerns and permit issues, leading to its abandonment.
Lisa Nandy, Britain’s culture secretary, emphasized the long-term benefits of the project. She described the new theme park as a “landmark investment,” highlighting not only the introduction of American creations but also the opportunity to showcase British cultural icons to the world. “We’ve got so much to be proud of,” she told the BBC, referencing figures like James Bond, Paddington Bear, and Harry Potter.
The success of the venture will depend on attracting millions of visitors. While studio and government officials refrained from revealing specific details about the park’s attractions, an artist’s rendering provided a glimpse of the concept, including several roller coasters and shopping areas surrounding a large lagoon. However, officials have been cautious about confirming which movie or TV characters will be featured.
“It is still too early in the process to know the possibilities of featured attractions and experiences,” Universal Studios said in a statement. “Should we secure the necessary planning approvals, we would confirm the exact details at a later stage.”
Universal Studios’ existing theme parks, such as those in Singapore, Japan, China, and the United States, feature rides based on its own movie and TV library, including Jurassic Park, Shrek, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Jaws, and Back to the Future. The UK park could also draw from the British cultural landscape, with potential attractions featuring characters from Paddington Bear, Doctor Who, and other local franchises.
As the project moves forward, it remains to be seen how these various cultural influences will shape the park’s overall theme and appeal.
