Universal Destinations & Experiences is exploring plans for a potential new theme park and resort less than two hours from London.

The company recently purchased a 476-acre site south of Bedford and has been conducting feasibility studies and engaging with local and national stakeholders.

While excitement around the project is high, a Universal spokesperson noted that it is too early to confirm details of the attractions or experiences that could be part of the potential development.

On its website, a spokesperson said: “We recognise the tremendous excitement our theme parks and destinations bring; however, it is too early in the process to know the possibilities of featured attractions and experiences.”

In April, Universal held public exhibition events to share its proposal with residents, businesses, and the wider community.

The company has made information available on its website, where locals can review the plans and provide feedback.

The public engagement period ended on May 3, 2024.

If the project moves forward, it could bring significant benefits to Bedfordshire and the wider UK economy, including job creation, increased footfall for local businesses, and major investment in infrastructure.

This potential project would not just be Universal’s first branded theme park and resort in the UK, but its first in Europe.

It means Bedford would be host to one of only a few of the world-class theme parks and resorts.

The site is located to the south of Bedford town centre, near Kempston Hardwick, and located between the villages of Wixams, Stewartby and Wootton.

It includes the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks site, as well as some fields to the south, none of which form part of the Green Belt, according to Universal.

The extent of the project is approximately 700 acres in size, and includes the 476 acres purchased last year, along with a smaller parcel of land to the southwest, which Universal say to have an “option” to acquire, according to its information pack on the website.

If confirmed, the park could create an expected 8,000 new jobs once operational, rising to 10,000 by year 20 of operation, along with thousands of jobs generated through construction, with an estimated onsite peak workforce of 5,000.

Universal also plan to work with local institutions and businesses, boost tourism in the UK, and facilitate significant infrastructure improvements, such as potentially include rail and road upgrades.