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28 August 2026
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Universal Destinations & Experiences (UDX)

On 19 August 2026, tourism minister, Stephanie Peacock attend a roundtable with local authorities, MPs and stakeholders to discuss the opportunities arising from Universal's planned theme park and resort in Bedford. Image: DCMS

Bedford hosts cross-party summit to discuss Universal UK resort growth

Ministers, MPs, and leaders from eight councils gathered at The Swan Hotel in Bedford to coordinate plans, jobs, and infrastructure upgrades for the landmark Universal UK theme park proposal...
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Universal Globe at theme park. Image: Universal Destinations & Experiences

Mohammad Yasin MP joins regional leaders for Universal roundtable 

Mohammad Yasin (Labour) MP for Bedford and Kempston, joined DCMS Minister Stephanie Peacock MP and local authority leaders from across the region in Bedford for a…
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A stone circular well, inside a deeper hole, cordoned off by orange netting, shows where archeologists have found a well, believed to be from the 1870s, uncovered at the construction site for Universal United Kingdom Resort Image Project Universal

Archaeologists uncover 150-year-old well at Universal United Kingdom Resort site

Drone footage of archaeological digs at the Universal United Kingdom Resort site in Bedford Borough has revealed a 24-metre well dating back to 1873, uncovering a piece of local Victorian history...
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Mayor Tom Wootton's Universal mug with the list of locations for Universal Theme Parks around the world. Image: Bedford Independent

Bedford Borough Council plans tourism strategy to capitalise on Universal’s £50bn economic impact

A tourism strategy is being developed to make the most of the Universal UK theme park’s “once-in-a-generation investment” to transform the borough. It’s part of a local visitor...
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Stewartby Brickworks close after over 100 years of brick making in the area. Four Chimneys in the distance in this black and White photo with kilns in the foreground were given Grade 2 listed status. Image: Stewartby and Kempston Hardwick Parish Council.

Stewartby centenary event to celebrate brickwork history and highlight Universal UK Resort future

Stewartby turns 100 next month. The village is hosting a free community celebration at the Dave Law Sports Ground to mark its historic brickmaking roots while highlighting plans for the...
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Cllr Henry Vann Image Bedford Borough Liberal Democrats. Image: Bedford Borough Liberal Democrats.

Monthly column: A brighter future needs a change at the top

We’re missing a trick in Bedford Borough. The Mayor is distracted by politics and resignations from his Cabinet instead of making sure local residents – and particularly our young people...
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Jet Boots disply team performing in front of the suspension bridge on the River Great Ouse at the Bedford River Festival 2024. Image: Bedford Independent

Universal backs Bedford River Festival in first major community sponsorship

Universal Destinations & Experiences and Gallagher Developments have been announced as headline sponsors of the 2026 Bedford River Festival. The company behind the Universal United...
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The eyes of the world are now on Bedford as Universal United Kingdom Resort moves forward

Tourism minister Stephanie Peacock says the Universal resort will place Bedford “firmly on the global entertainment map” as ministers visit the site and local leaders highlight jobs, skills and investment...
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BedX at King's House, Bedford on 28 April. (l-r) Gidon Freeman, vice-president external affairs Universal Destinations & Experiences; Nick Platt, managing director, Luton Rising; Ashley Shorey-Mills, supply chain engagement director, Suffolk Chamber of Commerce; Kirsty Maynard, commercial director, THSP; Patrick Lyons, inward investment lead, Bedford Borough Council; Gina Bubbins, director of business partnerships, The Bedford College Group. Image: Duncan Jack Photography and Michael Thorn Photography.

BedX launches to help Bedfordshire businesses tap into Universal and Luton Airport growth

BedX has launched in Bedford to help local businesses access opportunities linked to Universal Studios and London Luton Airport investment. More than 400 businesses gathered at King’s House...
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Universal and EWR montage Image Universal Destinations and Experiences and EWR

Traffic fears as impact of Universal and East West Rail on Marston Vale not fully analysed

The impact of two key strategic projects in Central Bedfordshire on a nearby mixed development project in the Marston Vale has yet to be fully analysed, local Conservative...
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