Entertainment giant Universal is to build a new theme park and resort in Bedford - bring thousands of jobs to the area.

The multi-billion-pound investment will create around 20,000 construction jobs with the site is set to open in 2031.

A planning proposal will be submitted to government in the months ahead with a projected construction start date in 2026, subject to relevant planning approval.

Around 8,000 jobs are set to be created across the hospitality and creative industries when the site - to be built on the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks site - opens in 2031. 

Universal expects the site to generate nearly £50bn for the economy by 2055, with 8.5 million visitors expected in its first year – becoming the largest visitor attraction in the UK.

Prime minister Keir Starmer said: “Today we closed the deal on a multi-billion-pound investment that will see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage.

“This is our Plan for Change in action, combining local and national growth with creating around 28,000 new jobs across sectors such as construction, AI and tourism.

“It is not just about numbers; it’s about securing real opportunities for people in our country. Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK, getting people into work and ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive.”

The development, working with Bedford Borough Council, will be the first Universal-branded theme park and resort destination in Europe and will be part of a larger 476-acre entertainment resort complex.

Proposed plans from Universal Destinations & Experiences, a business unit of Comcast, include a world-class theme park with several themed lands featuring Universal’s distinct brand of immersive storytelling, thrilling rides, innovative attractions and exciting entertainment, all utilising sophisticated and advanced technology.

Initial resort plans also feature a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining and entertainment complex.

Mike Cavanagh, president of Comcast Corporation, said: “We could not be more excited to take this very important step in our plan to create and deliver an incredible Universal theme park and resort in the heart of the United Kingdom, which complements our growing US-based parks business by expanding our global footprint to Europe.”

Mark Woodbury, chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, added: “Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity and is part of our strategy to introduce the Universal brand and experiences to new audiences around the globe. 

“We appreciate the incredible support for our proposed project and look forward to bringing it to life in the years ahead.”

The government will commit to a major investment in infrastructure around the site to support the delivery of the project and ensure it is well connected and easily accessible.

The proposals remain subject to a planning decision from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.