In a groundbreaking announcement, the UK government has confirmed that Europe’s first-ever Universal theme park will be built on British soil, marking a major milestone for the country’s entertainment and tourism sectors.

The development is set to rise on the grounds of a former brickworks in Kempston Hardwick, near Bedford. Once completed, the 476-acre site could become one of Europe’s most expansive and technologically advanced theme parks, projected to draw an estimated 8.5 million visitors in its debut year. The project is expected to generate around 28,000 jobs ahead of its anticipated opening in 2031.

Universal Destinations & Experiences, the global entertainment company behind hit films like Minions and Wicked, has existing parks in the U.S., Japan, China, and Singapore. However, this marks the first time Universal will design and construct a theme park in Europe from the ground up—unlike its previous licensing deal with Spain’s PortAventura.

During a visit to Kimberley College in nearby Stewartby, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer praised the multibillion-pound venture, saying it would place Bedford firmly on the global entertainment map. “This will be one of the largest entertainment parks in Europe, and it will put our region in the international spotlight,” said Starmer. He even shared a lighthearted moment, noting that the announcement had sparked rare enthusiasm from his teenage children, aged 14 and 16. “They don’t usually pay much attention to my announcements, but this one definitely caught their interest.”

According to Universal, around 80% of the newly created jobs will benefit residents of Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes—providing a significant economic boost to the area. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy welcomed the investment as a “game-changer” for the UK economy. “This isn't just about bringing iconic American stories to our shores,” she said on BBC Breakfast, “it's about shining a light on Britain’s cultural exports too—like Paddington Bear, James Bond, and Harry Potter. We have so many iconic characters and stories to share with the world.”

A full planning application is set to be submitted in the coming months, with construction expected to begin in 2026.