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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…

Railway lines

Rail campaigners say Bedford’s Universal theme park must come with ‘fit for purpose’ rail connections

Rail campaigners have welcomed planning permission for the Universal theme park near Bedford but say its success depends on delivering a “fit for purpose” Bedford Midland...
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Blake Stephenson MP speaking in Parliament. Image: Parliament TV

Government apologises after “error” left Mid Bedfordshire MP out of Universal theme park announcement

Mid Bedfordshire MP Blake Stephenson received an apology in Parliament after learning of planning approval for the new Universal theme park in his constituency from a neighbouring MP’s...
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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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Stack of pound coins on financial graphs and figures balance sheet Image Brian A Jackson Shutterstock

Bedford financial advisor analyses local impact of Autumn Budget as MPs clash over tax and welfare

Local financial experts and Bedfordshire MPs have given sharply different reactions to the Chancellor’s Budget. We look at what frozen tax thresholds, wage rises, benefit changes and a possible...
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How Bedford's new 'plaza style' Midland Mainline station on Ashburnham Road might look. Image: EWR

East West Rail plan promises new Bedford station, hospital hub and Universal-ready line as leaders warn ‘big questions remain’

East West Rail has published a 277 page update including plans for a rebuilt Bedford station, a new Bedford St Johns next to the hospital, and major changes to the Marston Vale Line. Local leaders say...
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Universal Theme Park happy family with globe. Image: Universal Destinations and Experiences

Borough Councillors clash over Universal scrutiny and Government influence

A row has broken out at Bedford Borough Council over how the Universal theme park should be scrutinised, after councillors clashed over transparency, political theatre, and fears...
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An artist impression of how the new Universal Theme Park might look. It has a huge lake in the centre with various themed areas around it. it also show the entrance and 'city walk'

Bedford Borough’s Local Plan 2040 has “no credible future” in light of Universal plans

Bedford Borough Council has voted to withdraw its Local Plan 2040, following a warning from the government’s Planning Inspector that the plan has “no credible future” in light of the proposed...
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Terraced houses

Universal Studios project sparks housing fears

A Bedford Borough Council meeting heard that the planned Universal Studios theme park could worsen housing pressures in Bedford, with fears that more homes will be turned into holiday...
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Helen Lovejoy meme. Image: Gif.com/Fox

Bedford Ian writes…

15 August 2025: Universal panic, Daily fail and Bedfordians on tour. Bedford Ian has been looking at recent goings on across Bedford Borough and tells us what he thinks of it all…
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