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9 November 2026
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Universal United Kingdom Resort

The latest news on Universal Studios UK, Universal United Kingdom Resort, in Bedford. Updates on the proposed Universal Studios theme park,  including plans, reaction, and local coverage…

The Pilgrims Progress pub on Midland Road in Bedford Town Centre. Image J D Wetherspoon

Wetherspoon expands to Kempston ahead of Universal Studios arrival

JD Wetherspoon has confirmed the purchase of the former Brewers Fayre site in Kempston, with plans to redevelop the building into Bedford Borough’s second Wetherspoon pub by September...
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Bedford Town Centre from above

Councillors fear tourism tax could drive Universal visitors away

A ‘tourism tax’ targeting overnight visitors to the Universal theme park and resort near Bedford would be “the absolute last thing” the borough council needs to impose, a meeting heard...
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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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Kayaks on the River Great Ouse by the Butterfly Bridge during the River Festival Image Bedford Borough Council

Everything you need to know as Bedford River Festival returns next month

Bedford River Festival returns on 18 and 19 July with dragon boats, raft races, live music, classic cars, watersports and family entertainment. Thousands of people are expected to descend on...
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Universal and EWR montage Image Universal Destinations and Experiences and EWR

Northampton MP presses ministers for East West Rail link to Universal

Northampton South MP Mike Reader has launched a campaign for direct rail services to the planned Universal resort, arguing the town should not miss out on the opportunities the project will bring...
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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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Chancellor Rachel Reeves at the Universal UK Resort site. Image: Kirsty O'Connor/Treasury

Mid Bedfordshire MP says he was not invited to Universal resort announcement

Mid Bedfordshire MP Blake Stephenson has questioned why he was not invited to a government announcement marking the next stage of the planned Universal United Kingdom Resort development...
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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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