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28 August 2026
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Universal Destinations & Experiences (UDX)

The Bedford River Festival Main Stage in Russell Park. Image: Pad Presents

Why Bedford is brilliant: Local voices on why our Borough deserves national recognition

Local voices from business, culture and community groups explain why Bedford deserves its place on The Sunday Times list of the best places to live in the East of England...
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Close-up of a drone remote controller held in hands by the pilot. Image: Schager/Bedford Independent

Universal Studios UK drone notice is a warning, not a no-fly zone

Universal’s cease and desist notice to drone operators near its Bedford site has sparked debate, with aviation rules showing it does not create a formal no-fly zone.
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Flying drone. Image- Dmitry Kalinovsky:Shutterstock

Universal warns drone operators to stay away from Bedford theme park site

Universal has issued a cease and desist notice over unauthorised drone flights near its Bedford construction site, warning of possible criminal and civil action. A notice published...
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Universal Globe at theme park. Image: Universal Destinations & Experiences

New water plant, substation and EV hub planned for Universal Studios UK

ESP Utilities Group will design, build and operate new water, power and energy infrastructure for the planned Universal resort in Bedford, including a treatment facility, substation and large...
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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

Universal theme park chief thanks Bedford for support after government green light

Planning permission for Universal’s Bedford theme park has been confirmed by a government Special Development Order, and Universal’s Page Thompson has written to residents to thank...
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Universal Theme Park happy family with globe. Image: Universal Destinations and Experiences

Breaking news: Green light given for Bedford Universal Studios theme park

The government has granted planning permission for a major Universal Entertainment Resort Complex at Kempston Hardwick in Bedford, with new theme parks, hotels and transport...
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Mayor Tom Wootton holds up a cut out of the UK, showing Bedford as the the location of the proposed new Universal Studios Theme Park. Image: Bedford Independent

Bedford Borough Council to formally support Universal Plans but concerns are raised

Bedford Borough councillors are set to formally support plans for Universal Studios, but concerns have been raised over traffic, housing demand, and noise, and they say financial support...
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Comcast president Michael J. Cavanagh speaking at Kimberley College about Universal Studios UK. Image: Bedford Independent

Parent’s concern over child safety and Universal Studios

A parent in Stewartby fears their children’s safety could be put at risk if a huge Universal Studios theme park is built nearby, warning that large numbers of strangers in the area could...
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Cllr Henry Vann on the North Beds Liberal Democrat 2025 Village Tour. Image: Bedford Borough Liberal Democrats

Monthly column: Bedford can’t be back of the queue

Universal runs internationally renowned theme parks, and we welcome Universal’s intention to come to Bedford Borough. While visitors will be happy to queue for rides, when it comes...
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Universal Theme Park happy family with globe. Image: Universal Destinations and Experiences

Impact of Universal Studios UK construction on traffic sparks concerns at parish meeting

Locals in Stewartby and Kempston Hardwick have expressed concerns about the impact of traffic, both during the construction of Universal Studios UK and once it becomes operational...
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