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In a significant show of solidarity, the CEOs and political leaders of six local authorities have united to express their "unequivocal support" for the proposed Universal theme park in Bedford Borough. The letter, sent to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, aims to provide a substantial boost to the ambitious project and underscores the collective enthusiasm within the region.
A Unanimous Endorsement
The letter, spearheaded by Bedford Borough Council's CEO and Mayor, contains signatures from leaders across Central Bedfordshire, Luton Borough, Milton Keynes City, North Northamptonshire, and West Northamptonshire councils. This diverse coalition represents a unified front, lending strong backing to Universal Destinations & Experiences’ potential theme park and resort project. According to the signatories, this collaboration could alleviate concerns over objections during the planning application process.
Extensive consultations with local residents reveal nearly universal support for the theme park, further bolstering the project's prospects. The community engagement efforts indicate a formidable consensus, with 92% of people giving positive feedback.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The letter to the Prime Minister highlights the transformative potential of the Universal UK Theme Park. If approved, the project would create 20,000 jobs during the construction phase, with an additional 20,000 positions generated directly and through the supply chain during its operation. Furthermore, the theme park promises to establish a global destination in the heart of the region, attracting millions of tourists, including many from Europe and overseas.
The project would not only elevate the UK's profile as a leader in the creative industries but also serve as a magnet for business investments. The anticipated economic benefits underscore the importance of securing this transformative opportunity for the region.
Unified Approach and Commitment
Laura Church, Chief Executive of Bedford Borough Council, emphasised the significance of the Universal project receiving approval: “The potential theme park and resort serve as a major draw for tourists, attracting millions of annual visitors. It will bolster the UK’s profile as a leader in the creative industries, a must-see visitor destination, and business investment hub, resulting in growth for the region.”
The letter reassures the Prime Minister that local authorities are working closely with several central government departments to ensure a unified approach to the project. This collaborative effort underscores their commitment to maximising the benefits for local communities and supporting the investment.
Mayor Tom Wootton (Conservative), elected Mayor of Bedford Borough, expressed unwavering support: “We want to show our unwavering support and commitment to working with Universal Destinations & Experiences to maximise the benefits for local communities. This investment represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure transformational economic growth and development for the region.”
Universal’s Perspective
Universal Destinations and Experiences has expressed appreciation for the broad support for the potential project. Page Thompson, president of new ventures at Universal Destinations & Experiences, commented, “A world-class theme park and resort from Universal has the potential to generate billions in economic benefit for the UK, by creating thousands of high-quality jobs and attracting millions of new visitors to the country.”
Rumors of the theme park first emerged when financial records and land purchases were published by the theme park blog Orlando Park Stop, revealing the possibility of a Universal Studios theme park resort in Stewartby. These reports were later confirmed by the Bedford Independent after discussions with a representative of Universal Theme Parks & Resorts.
For more details on the ongoing developments, visit our Universal Studios pages or read the full story of the Universal Great Britain project so far.
To read the full letter sent to the Prime Minister, you can view it here.
