Plans for a Universal park in Bedford have moved into a new phase after the Government granted planning permission through a Special Development Order, a decision set to deliver major economic benefits across Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes.
The approval advances proposals for Europe’s first Universal-branded theme park and resort and follows several years of detailed collaboration between Universal Destinations & Experiences, Bedford Borough Council and Government officials. Crucially for regional businesses, the decision signals firm national backing for a development expected to reshape the visitor economy across the wider South East Midlands.
The planning consent was issued via a Special Development Order, a mechanism reserved for developments of national importance. As a result, approval was granted directly by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government rather than through the standard local authority process.
Although further planning stages remain, the announcement removes a major barrier and represents a decisive milestone for the project.
Tom Wootton, Mayor of Bedford Borough, described the approval as one of the most significant moments of his political career. He said the decision reflected the collective effort behind the project and its long-term impact.
“This is one of the proudest moments of my political life,” said Tom. “I’d love to take all the credit, but I can’t. This is the result of so much hard work by so many people, and it will have a huge, positive impact on countless lives long into the future.”
He said the approval demonstrated confidence not only in Bedford and Kempston, but in the wider region’s ability to support investment at scale.
“This is a huge vote of confidence in the borough and the region,” he said. “This is the perfect place for this investment — well connected, full of talent and ready to grow. I know residents and businesses will seize the opportunities this brings, and I will work closely with Universal to ensure the partnership continues to flourish.”
Once delivered, the theme park is expected to generate an estimated £50 billion economic benefit, while creating around 20,000 jobs during the construction phase alone. Thousands more permanent roles are anticipated when the resort opens.
For Milton Keynes, the scale of the development presents clear opportunities across construction, logistics, professional services, digital technology, hospitality and advanced manufacturing. With strong transport links, a large skilled workforce and a mature business ecosystem, MK is expected to play a significant role in supporting both the build and long-term operation of the resort.
Laura Church, chief executive of Bedford Borough Council, said the development would be transformative not just locally, but across the wider regional economy.
“This truly puts Bedford on the map as a global destination for tourism, creativity and innovation,” said Laura. “It starts with tens of thousands of construction jobs, followed by many more roles once the park opens.”
She added that the flow of visitors would create sustained demand across multiple sectors. “The millions of visitors expected each year will open up opportunities for our economy and residents in hospitality, retail, technology and far beyond,” she said.
When operational, the resort is expected to become one of the largest employers in the region. Importantly for Milton Keynes, the council estimates that around 80 per cent of employees could be drawn from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes, reinforcing the need for regional skills development and business engagement.
Local business groups have welcomed the decision, describing it as a landmark moment for the regional economy and encouraging Milton Keynes firms to position themselves early for future supply-chain and procurement opportunities linked to the development.
