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Universal seeks UK suppliers for Bedford theme park resort

Universal is inviting UK businesses to express interest in supplying its planned Bedfordshire theme park resort via an online form, ahead of submitting a formal planning application

Universal has yet to submit a planning application for the proposed Bedford resort

Universal Destinations & Experiences has issued a call for UK businesses to register interest in becoming suppliers for its proposed theme park resort in Bedfordshire.

Although the company has yet to submit a formal planning application, its parent company Comcast signed a landmark agreement in principle with the UK government for the development. If approved, the project could become “one of the largest and most technologically advanced” theme parks in Europe.

Universal is encouraging potential suppliers to complete an online registration form, signalling the start of its outreach to UK businesses across multiple sectors.

“Should the project receive planning consent, it is expected that there will be a significant number of opportunities for businesses created across a range of different sectors,” the form says.

The project is expected to generate approximately 20,000 jobs during construction and around 8,000 permanent positions once operational. Universal has also committed to working with the UK government on significant upgrades to local road and rail infrastructure with an emphasis on involving regional firms in delivery.

“We’re committed to advertising these to local businesses and will engage with the community at the appropriate time,” the form states, although it could “be some time before these opportunities become available.”

The Universal UK resort will be located just south of Bedford in Kempston Hardwick   CREDIT: UNIVERSAL

Construction on the Universal UK theme park resort could begin as early as 2026, pending approval, with the resort’s opening slated for 2031. It will be built on a 476-acre site of a former brickworks in Kempston Hardwick, just south of Bedford.

The planned resort will feature a major theme park with state-of-the-art rides, immersive zones, and live entertainment powered by cutting-edge technology. Additional facilities include a retail, dining, and entertainment complex, as well as a 500-room hotel.

An economic impact analysis commissioned by Universal Destinations & Experiences projects the resort will attract 8.5 million visitors in its first year and could contribute nearly £50bn (US$64bn, €58bn) to the UK economy in its first 20 years.

“This is a special and historic moment for our company as we continue to accelerate the growth trajectory of our theme parks business and delight audiences around the world,” Comcast president Mike Cavanagh commented.

Mark Woodbury, chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, added: “Bringing the Universal brand to the United Kingdom is another exciting step forward in generating future growth.”

Local leaders have also voiced their support for the project, with Bedford mayor Tom Wootton emphasising the development’s significance to the local community.

“This is a landmark moment for Bedford. Universal’s decision to proceed with its theme park and resort in the UK brings exciting opportunities to our doorstep – thousands of jobs, new training and career paths, and a huge boost for local businesses,” he said.