The UK government has pledged to spend nearly £500 million on transport and infrastructure improvements to support Universal’s proposed UK theme park near Bedford.
Via a report in the Financial Times, people close to the discussions between Universal and the UK government said the latter is lining up the £500m transport package.
The estimated £500m cost of improvements around the site includes about £270m in rail network upgrades and approximately £200m for road works, according to a government official.
However, the package is still being negotiated with Universal, and it could change. The cost could also end up being higher, people close to the talks said.
Earlier this year, a multibillion-pound deal was agreed for the new park in Bedfordshire, first announced in December 2023 after Universal bought a 476-acre parcel of land in the county.
The planned destination could generate nearly £50 billion for the economy during construction and the first 20 years of operations, according to an economic impact analysis commissioned by Universal Destinations & Experiences.
Rail and road upgrades near Bedford
Construction would also create a total of 20,000 jobs, and the resort could create 8,000 new jobs once up and running.
Plans for the world-class theme park include multiple immersive areas, thrilling rides, cutting-edge attractions and spectacular entertainment, all driven by advanced technology.
Infrastructure upgrades are required in the area around the theme park if the plans are approved, a council leader said earlier this year.
“We will be pushing the government for solutions,” Adam Zerny, independent leader of Central Bedfordshire Council, told the BBC.
“We want a lot for this area, and we’re going to demand a lot. Don’t ask, don’t get.”
He added, “We will continue to lobby the government for what we need in this area.”
Meanwhile, Universal Destinations & Experiences is already inviting suppliers to register their interest in the proposed park.
Images courtesy of Universal
