Universal’s new Bedford theme park backed by £500 million

Universal’s new theme park in Bedford, UK has secured a government support package worth around £500 million ($686 million) for rail and road upgrades, as part of a wider package to boost infrastructure ahead of the park’s planned 2031 opening.

Comcast, Universal’s parent company, is negotiating the final size of the government support package, which currently includes £270 million ($370 million) for rail improvements - including a new station at Wixams - and about £200 million ($274 million) for roadworks.

This investment follows earlier plans to build a two-platform station at Wixams, which local officials say will need expanding to four platforms if the park goes ahead.

The theme park, to be built on a 192-hectare site at the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks, is expected to generate a £50 billion ($68 billion) boost to the UK economy. The governent said the project will create around 20,000 construction jobs and 8,000 permanent roles once operational. Universal forecasts about 8.5 million visitors in the park’s first year, with an estimated £14.1 billion ($19.37 billion) in tax revenues over two decades.

The government’s backing comes amid efforts led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves to stimulate economic growth. Last month, the government approved plans to nearly double capacity at nearby Luton airport, which is expected to serve many visitors to the park.

Comcast had considered several countries before selecting the UK for its latest attraction, highlighting the importance of the government’s financial and infrastructure commitments in securing the project.

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