Universal confirmed that they have submitted the first set of plans and a Special Development Order for the Bedford park site to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government(MHCLG)
A Special Development Order(SDO) would allow Universal’s Bedford park project to circumvent local planning processes, only requiring the approval of the secretary of state. Given the Government’s previously stated support of the development, approval is likely.
A Universal spokesperson described the project as “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,” that would have “transformative impact on Bedford and the UK economy.”
Generating “£50bn of economic benefit and create 28,000 jobs”
The Bedford site would be Universal’s first branded theme park in Europe, transforming the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks and creating 20,000 construction jobs over the course of the five-year development.
If approval is granted, work would commence next year.
The project would also see a raft of infrastructure upgrades to the local area, including an updated and expanded Wixams railway station, direct slip roads from the A421 and other road improvements.
Over 92% of residents backed the proposals during public engagement in April 2024
Universal reported that thousands of residents had taken part in engagement sessions in April 2024, with an overwhelming majority supporting the plans. Whilst Universal was not revealing details on specific rides and activities yet as “it is still too early in the process to know the possibilities of featured attractions and experiences,” the business did state that they appreciated the high level of engagement and approval.
Universal went on to say: “The past year has enabled us to closely engage with Bedford Borough Council, neighbouring authorities, national government, transport and environmental bodies and local communities.”
Universal has already provided online resources for people wishing to work at the park, as well as encouraging local construction businesses to be part of the development: “Should the project receive planning consent, it is expected there will be a significant number of opportunities for businesses created across a range of different sectors.
“We’re committed to advertising these to local businesses and will engage with the community at the appropriate time.”
“The sheer scale of this project raises significant questions about grid capacity”
Lee Ackerman, net zero manager at Connectus Utilities, said: “The plans for a Universal Studios theme park in Bedfordshire offer exciting prospects – however, the development’s long-term success hinges on a robust and sustainable utility strategy. Meeting the upcoming EPC targets (C by 2027, B by 2030) for leased buildings demands a serious commitment to green technologies from the outset. The potential for on-site renewables like air, ground, or water source heat pumps, alongside solar and wind, must be fully explored and strategically implemented.
“Crucially, the sheer scale of this project raises significant questions about grid capacity for both electricity and water. Planners must clearly outline how these substantial demands will be met and if network upgrades are necessary. The role of gas also needs careful consideration given sustainability goals and EPC requirements. Questions should be raised around whether hydrogen could play a more prominent role in powering the park, as an alternative fuel option.
“The surrounding land offers a valuable opportunity for integrating significant renewable energy generation. Furthermore, efficient energy procurement, metering strategies for a high-voltage supply, and market pricing dynamics will be critical. Beyond the immediate site, exploring synergies like utilising waste heat from potential nearby data centres could offer innovative sustainability solutions.
“Ultimately, as we look to the future of large-scale developments, it will be interesting to see if Universal Studios can set a new benchmark for truly integrated and sustainable infrastructure in Bedfordshire, demonstrating how major attractions can meaningfully contribute to our environmental goals.”
