Universal Destinations & Experiences has submitted a formal request to the UK government for permission to build its proposed theme park and resort in Bedford, requesting approval through a Special Development Order (SDO).
If accepted, the SDO would allow Universal to bypass the usual local planning process and proceed directly to construction, subject to conditions set by ministers and national agencies.
The request was submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and is being sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).
Universal states that its submission encompasses the full range of technical documents typically required in a planning application, including an Environmental Statement, Planning Statement, and Design and Access Statement.
Read: Council leaders explain why Universal Studios is a game-changer for the whole Borough
The development would be built on the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks site and include a world-class theme park, visitor accommodation, retail, dining and entertainment spaces.
According to Universal, it would generate a £50 billion boost to the UK economy and attract 8.5 million visitors in its first year.
It would also support 28,000 jobs (20,000 in construction and 8,000 ongoing roles). They added that people from the local area would fill 80% of the jobs once the park opens.
A spokesperson for Universal said 92% of participants in its April 2024 engagement expressed support for the project.
Read: Universal says 92% of people gave positive feedback to UK theme park plans
The company said the public will be invited to comment on the Environmental Statement and other submitted materials during the next phase of MHCLG’s consultation.
£500m public infrastructure pledge
Universal’s decision to select Bedford over other international options was secured with a £500 million package of public investment in rail and road infrastructure.
According to The Guardian, the support includes approximately £270 million for rail upgrades, including a significantly expanded station at Wixams, and around £200 million for road improvements to connect the resort and ease regional congestion.
A previous £62.6m plan for a two-platform Wixams station has now been overtaken by calls for a four-platform version to accommodate expected visitor volumes.
Read: Wixams station put on hold as Universal Studios plans reshape rail priorities
The public investment is part of the government’s broader push to stimulate economic growth, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves backing the Universal Development as a flagship project for regional regeneration.
Planning scrutiny
Comcast, Universal’s parent company, is currently in discussions with government departments, including the Treasury, Department for Transport, and DCMS, over the final scope of support.
The theme park proposals will still be subject to scrutiny by the Planning Inspectorate, with the final decision made by MHCLG.
In a separate move in April, the government overruled planning inspectors to approve the near-doubling of capacity at Luton Airport – expected to become a key transport hub for international visitors to the Bedford park.
