Universal’s first resort in the UK and Europe has officially been named, as the UK Government pledges an investment of £1.3 billion to support the project.
Expected to open in 2031, the entertainment resort complex will be based in Bedfordshire and has been named ‘Universal United Kingdom Resort.’
Comcast NBCUniversal has committed to invest over £5 billon in the entertainment resort complex during the expected 5 years of construction, marking one of the largest ever investments in the UK tourism sector.
Set to feature a world-class theme park and resort, the project will be developed by the company’s Universal Destinations & Experiences segment and is the brand’s first major destination in the UK and Europe. Universal United Kingdom Resort will also feature a 500-room hotel, alongside retail, dining and entertainment facilities.
Photo Credit: Universal Destinations & Experiences, Comcast.
Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, detailed that the announcement “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.”
Comcast NBCUniversal’s investment is expected to bring nearly 20,000 jobs during construction and a further 8,000 jobs when the resort opens in 2031. Approximately 80% of employees at the theme park and resort are expected to come from Bedfordshire and the surrounding regions.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said, “This landmark investment in the heart of the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor will unlock nearly £50 billion 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.”
The theme park and resort is expected to attract millions of visitors each year including more than a million additional overseas visitors.
