Universal Destinations & Experiences has started its appeal for businesses and skilled workers to make initial declarations of interest in its planned development in central England.
The media and themed entertainment giant intends to build and operate the company’s first-ever UK theme park resort near the city of Bedford, pending planning consent approvals. This follows more than a year of feasibility, due diligence, and close engagement with local and national stakeholders, as well as members of the local surrounding communities.
Universal has stated that Bedford is the ideal location with its fast rail links to London and London Luton Airport, ensuring the site will be well-connected for travel from all parts of the UK and Europe. The upcoming East West Rail (EWR) project also plans to deliver additional transport improvements for the region, specifically to the existing railway between Bletchley and Bedford. The site was identified by Bedford Borough Council for development for some time, with the size and flat topography that is important for a large-scale theme park resort.
Universal is also looking for talent to assist along the journey to opening day, including creative, marketing and sales, HR, construction and technology departments.
A representative said “At Universal Destinations & Experiences, we offer guests around the world the most innovative, immersive and popular entertainment experiences, featuring the industry’s most thrilling and technologically advanced attractions, exceptional hotels and resorts, unique merchandise, games, virtual and live entertainment.
“This development will have a transformative impact on Bedford and the UK economy. It will be a major contributor to the creative arts and tourism industries, generating nearly £50 billion of economic benefit for the UK and creating thousands of new, high-quality jobs. We are committed to advertising these jobs to local people.”
“Should the project receive planning consent, it is expected that there will be a significant number of opportunities for businesses created across a range of different sectors. We’re committed to advertising these to local businesses and will engage with the community at the appropriate time.”
Universal has said it is currently focused on submitting its planning proposal to the UK Government with a projected construction start date in 2026, subject to the relevant planning consent approvals.
Those interested in registering for future job opportunities, or for the prospective suppliers list, can do so on the Universal UK Project website.
Photos: Universal
