Universal's UK theme park officially named as government pledges £1.3bn
Universal's UK theme park will be called Universal United Kingdom Resort, and will be backed by £1.3 billion in government funding, it has been revealed.
In one of the largest investments in the UK tourism sector, a deal has been agreed between the UK government and Comcast NBCUniversal to build the entertainment resort complex.
Comcast NBCUniversal will invest more than £5bn in the resort, Universal's first major destination in the UK, with an additional £1bn over its first 10 years of operation.
The UK government will contribute £1.3bn to local infrastructure and transport improvements to support the Universal United Kingdom Resort.
The UK government will contribute £1.3bn to local infrastructure and transport improvements to support the resort and improve access for residents and visitors.
Located in Bedfordshire, just 45 minutes outside London, Universal United Kingdom Resort will employ thousands and entertain millions.
Developed by the company’s Universal Destinations & Experiences, the resort will feature a world-class theme park with several immersive lands and innovative attractions, as well as a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining, and entertainment complex.
Scheduled to open in 2031, the resort is projected to generate nearly £50bn in economic benefits for the UK by 2055.
Universal United Kingdom Resort is projected to generate nearly £50bn in economic benefits for the UK by 2055.
The project is expected to create around 20,000 construction jobs, followed by 8,000 permanent roles once the resort opens.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy joined Comcast Chairman Brian Roberts and Universal Destinations & Experiences CEO Mark Woodbury at 11 Downing Street to unveil the resort’s name and logo, with the chancellor also visiting the Bedford site ahead of the announcement.
Reeves said: "This landmark investment in the heart of the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor will unlock nearly £50bn of economic growth and create tens of thousands of jobs across Bedfordshire in construction, hospitality, creative and technology sectors.
Resort to generate £50bn in economic benefits
"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."
Mark Woodbury, chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, 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."
Images courtesy of Universal
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