Blake Stephenson, the Conservative MP for Mid Bedfordshire has told the Government they should do everything it can to secure a new Universal Studios theme park just outside of Bedford.
The proposed resort in Kempston Hardwick has almost ‘universal’ support, and the MP said it would “turbo charge” the Bedfordshire economy.
Last year, the Bedford Independent confirmed in a worldwide exclusive that Comcast, the parent company for Universal Destinations and Experiences had bought land in Bedford Borough.
Read: Universal Studios confirm they are planning a theme park in Bedford Borough
This was with a view to building a new theme park and resort which would become the company’s first in Europe.
During a tourism debate at Westminster, Mr Stephenson spoke about what he says would be the benefits the investment from the theme park would bring to the local area.
He urged the Government to make sure the deal gets the go ahead.
“The site that used to be the world’s largest brickworks, at Stewartby in my constituency, which once fired the bricks that built our nation, now has the potential to power our local economy again,” he said.
“Backed by 92% of local people and local leaders from all parties, this would be a £50 billion boost for our local economy, bringing around 20,000 jobs for local people.
“But would also, crucially, offer us an opportunity to turbocharge our local tourism, hospitality and leisure sectors with potentially 12 million more visitors in our area every year.
“It is a game changer—bringing millions more visitors to Bedfordshire to stay in our communities and see all that we have to offer.”
The site where the proposed theme park may be built has undergone extensive feasibility studies since the land was purchased.
Universal bosses have said that a decision about whether they’ll go ahead with the project would be made by the end of 2024.
Last month, officers at Bedford Borough Council, said the plans for the theme park were entering a “period of quiet” as the company negotiates with the government.
Read: Universal Studios plans enter “period of quiet” as government negotiations continue
A few weeks later, North Bedfordshire MP, Richard Fuller (Conservative) wrote to the Chancellor that he was “disappointed” an update about the plans were not announced at the International Investment Summit.
Read: Local MP disappointed Universal plans not mentioned at Government’s International Investment Summit
Universal was also not mentioned in Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ budget, despite a lengthy announcement on the importance of international investment in the UK.
The Bedford Independent has contacted Universal for comment.
