The UK government has launched an open consultation on the plans for Universal‘s theme park resort near Bedford.
In late June, Universal submitted a request to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) for planning permission to be “granted by way of making a Special Development Order (SDO)”.
Universal is seeking consent for an “entertainment resort complex featuring a world-class theme park with several themed lands, visitor accommodation, as well as a range of retail, dining and entertainment uses”.
After receiving the request, the MHCLG has launched an open consultation and is inviting comments on the proposals, which include statements on environment, planning, and design and access.
People can comment on the environmental statement and the other documents, plans and drawings that accompanied the request for planning permission, the ministry said.
The consultation has now opened and will close at midday on 31 August. Any comments submitted after this date may not be taken into account.
Consultation open until 31 August
The ministry is strongly encouraging responses via its online consultation portal, Citizen Space.
For any enquiries about the consultation, an email address has been provided.
A multibillion-pound deal was agreed for Universal’s resort in Bedfordshire in April. The park was first announced in December 2023 after Universal bought a 476-acre parcel of land in the county.
When the deal was announced, Mike Cavanagh, president of Universal parent company Comcast, said: “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.”
Universal is already inviting suppliers to register their interest in the proposed park.
Meanwhile, the government has reportedly pledged to spend nearly £500 million on transport and infrastructure improvements to support Universal’s plans.
Images courtesy of Universal
