Universal’s first UK theme park and resort, announced early last year and set to be one of the world’s largest theme parks, has now been officially named and funded in what the UK government describes as “one of the largest ever investments in British tourism”.
Officially announced Wednesday and scheduled to open in 2031, Universal’s United Kingdom Resort will be located on 476 acres of land purchased by Comcast in 2023, just south of the English town of Bedford. The green light was officially given in December. Six months later, the total amount spent has been revealed.
According to the British government, Comcast NBCUniversal has committed to investing more than 5 billion pounds ($6.7 billion) over the five years the resort is expected to take to build, and a further 1 billion pounds ($1.3 billion) during its first 10 years of operation.
Meanwhile, the government announced it would support the project by investing £1.3 billion ($1.7 billion) in regional and local community infrastructure to improve transport links for local residents and visitors from within the UK and beyond. This package could be one of the most significant investments made in the UK during this Parliament.
Unsurprisingly given the use of taxpayers’ money, the government and NBCUniversal have touted the economic benefits of Universal United Kingdom Resort, saying it will create 28,000 jobs between construction and operation and generate around 50 billion pounds ($67 billion) for the UK by 2055.
Lisa Nandy, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, said: “This unprecedented investment is a huge vote of confidence for the UK and will deliver a rocket booster to our entertainment industry.”
“The UK is second to none when it comes to creating world-class experiences. We are proud to support British industry, invest in local talent and partner with leading companies like Universal to create jobs, growth and opportunity across the UK.”
Construction on the entertainment complex is reportedly set to begin soon, and more than 100 people have already been hired to work on the project in the UK.
“This historic partnership is a special moment for us as we bring our first Universal theme parks and resorts to Europe,” said Comcast Chairman Brian Roberts. “We have a long and proud history in the UK through Sky and NBCUniversal and we look forward to supporting the UK’s creative industries and creating great destinations that bring joy to millions of people for generations to come.”
added Mark Woodbury, chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, which is developing the resort.
“Today marks a key milestone in our journey to bring Universal United Kingdom Resort to the UK, with its immersive storytelling, thrilling attractions and unparalleled creativity and innovation. This new theme park and resort will create so many new opportunities for people in Bedford and beyond, allowing us to share our unique experiences with guests from around the world.”
