by Donald Wood
Last updated: 8:15 AM ET, Wed April 9, 2025
Universal Destinations & Experiences announced plans to build
a new theme park in the United Kingdom.
According to BBC.com, Universal previously
announced in 2024 that it was conducting “feasibility and due diligence studies”
about building a theme park in the UK, with the results providing the company
with the confidence to proceed with the build.
While the project is still subject to planning approval,
Universal officials are moving forward with plans to begin construction in
2026. In 2023, the theme park brand’s parent company purchased a 476-acre property
outside Bedford in the UK.
“This is a special and historic milestone moment for our
company as we continue to accelerate the growth trajectory of our theme parks
business and delight audiences around the world,” Comcast President Mike
Cavanagh said.
“The unparalleled storytelling and technological innovation
that the incredible team at Universal Destinations & Experiences brings to
life is a perfect complement to the British creative arts and tourism
industries,” Cavanagh continued.
Universal revealed that the theme park project is expected
to contribute around $64 billion in direct and indirect benefits to the UK and
create 20,000 construction jobs during the build and 8,000 jobs once the park
is operating.
In addition to the planned theme park with multiple theme lands,
Universal revealed plans for a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining, and
entertainment complex.
“Bringing the Universal brand to the United Kingdom is
another exciting step forward in generating future growth,” Universal
Destinations & Experiences Chairman and CEO Mark Woodbury said.
“Expanding into Europe presents us with a significant
opportunity to reach new fans and share the incredible experiences our team
creates,” Woodbury continued.
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