Europe’s first Universal theme park is to open in Bedford in 2031 under a deal that will bring in an estimated £50bn to the UK economy.
Visitors are likely to see rides based on the studio’s most famous film franchises including Minions, Jaws and Jurassic Park.
The attraction is set to create nearly 20,000 jobs during the construction period, with a further 8,000 jobs available across the hospitality and creative industries.
Announcing the plans, Sir Keir Starmer sought to strike an optimistic note and talk up domestic strengths amid ongoing market turmoil following Donald Trump’s global trade tariffs.
It’s going to put Bedford on the map for millions of people film lovers – people coming here for fun, people building their careers here,” he said during a visit to the town. “You know, people said to me, government will be a roller-coaster, and I can testify to that.
