Universal Conducting Public Info Events for Possible UK Theme Park
The location of the potential development is outlined in red.
© Photo: Universal Destinations & Experiences
(eap) Universal Destinations & Experiences has been exploring the possibility of developing a theme park resort in England for several months. The company, which is part of the Comcast Corporation, already purchased a property for the potential development at the end of last year. This is a parcel of land almost 200 hectares large, located in the south of the city of Bedford, around an hour’s drive from London. Information events are currently being held for local residents who would like to know more about the theme park resort plans. Until May 3 this year, there is also the opportunity to take part in an online survey to provide personal feedback on the plans to Universal.
On a dedicated website, Universal Destinations & Experiences provides information about the assumed positive economic impact on Bedford and the region if the project plans can be pursued and ultimately implemented. According to this, 8,000 new jobs are expected to be created when the theme park resort opens, which could rise to around 10,000 by the 20th year of operation. Where possible, tenders should initially be issued locally so that people from the region in particular can benefit from the employment opportunities. Thousands of jobs would already be created during the construction phase, with an estimated peak workforce of 5,000 employees directly on site.
In addition, the general infrastructure is likely to be significantly expanded (e.g. in terms of road and rail connections). However, the location chosen for the theme park resort already is in easy reach for visitors from all over the UK as well as for international guests. With a theme park destination of the globally renowned Universal brand, a growth impulse for British tourism is considered certain. Universal Destinations & Experiences estimates that for every job created at the park, 1.5 additional jobs are created across the UK economy. In addition, partnerships with local educational institutions and companies are conceivable, along with specialized training and development programs for employees.
In addition to its five existing theme park resorts worldwide (Universal Studios Hollywood, Orlando, Singapore, Japan and Beijing), it still remains to be seen whether Universal will also be able to plant a flag on the British map in the future. ■
