Universal‘s proposed UK theme park could include the tallest rides in Europe, as revealed in new planning documents.
Yesterday (3 July), the UK government launched an open consultation on the plans for Universal’s theme park resort near Bedford.
This came after Universal submitted a request for planning permission to be “granted by way of making a special development order (SDO)”.
With the open consultation, Universal has released statements on environment, planning, and design and access.
In the new documents, Universal said it could build structures up to 115 metres high, including rides, the BBC reports.
“The reason for proposing structures up to this maximum height is to allow the proposed theme park to compete with other attractions in Europe,” Universal said.
Universal submits first plans for UK park
“Although the Universal Orlando Resort does not currently have attractions up to this height, taller attractions are more common in Europe, where rides need to be taller to create the experience, as space is more constrained.
“Building attractions that are higher, rather than over greater areas, also makes the best use of land which is in line with planning policy.”
The tallest ride in the UK currently is Hyperia at Thorpe Park at 72 metres high. The tallest in Europe is Red Force, a 112-metre-high coaster at Spain’s PortAventura World.
A multibillion-pound deal was agreed for Universal’s resort in Bedfordshire in April.
The new destination was first announced in December 2023 after Universal bought a 476-acre parcel of land in the county.
“[Guests will] discover great food, new laughs, new ways to play, and step into immersive worlds they’ve only ever dreamed of,” Universal said in the new documents.
The open consultation for Universal’s planned UK park will close at midday on 31 August. Responses can be shared via an online consultation portal, Citizen Space.
Images courtesy of Universal
