PLANS for a huge new UK theme park have been given a boost, with the government promising to help facilitate the project.
Last year, it was revealed that Universal had acquired land in Bedford in the UK and were considering whether or not it would be a good site for the company’s first European theme park.
Speaking to Sun Travel at the time, a spokesperson said that were “at the early stages of exploring the feasibility for a potential park and resort at this site”.
They added: “It will be many months before we are ready to make a decision to proceed and we look forward to engaging with all relevant stakeholders and the local community.”
However, since then, plans have been published online, including several maps, giving an indication of what the theme park could possibly look like, if plans are given the green light.
The 16-page document suggested that the new site could include features like a hotel and a retail, dining and entertainment zone as well as a Lake Zone, a restoration zone and a landscaped area.
It also claimed that rides, attractions and buildings at the theme park would be capped at a maximum height.
Specific rides and attractions will only be confirmed, should Universal decide to go ahead with the park, once all feasibility assessments have been completed.
They continued: “We recognise the tremendous excitement our theme parks and developments bring, yet it is too early in the process to know the possibilities of featured attractions and experiences.”
However, the new Labour government is keen to work with Universal on the theme park and Lisa Nandy, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport has said she intends to work with them on building the park.
In a letter written to Mohammad Yasin, the MP for Bedford, Ms Nandy said the proposed theme park would be “a significant boost to both tourism and creative industries”.
Ms Nandy went on to confirm that she, along with Sir Chris Bryant, the minister for creative industries, arts and tourism, would be working alongside the park’s developers to help make the project happen.
Her letter continued: “A world-class, large-scale theme park has the potential to transform the area, drive growth and create thousands of jobs.
“My officials are working closely with NBCUniversal to assess the local and national impacts and facilitate the deliverability of this project.”
The news comes following the positive outcome of an economic impact assessment carried out by Universal Destinations and Experiences.
The BBC reports that the assessment revealed the project’s net economic contribution was forecast to be £35.1bn during construction and the first 20 years.
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It also claimed that 20,000 jobs would be created during construction, while the resort would initially create 8,000 new jobs once up and running.
Mr Yasin shared Ms Nandy’s letter on X, formerly Twitter, and said: “It’s promising that Department officials have been continuing their discussions with Universal and that Ministers are taking a personal interest in this project.
“It’s positive to see such a proactive approach from the Government to engaging with businesses investing in our country.
“I will continue my discussions with Universal and will do all I can to facilitate a decision to build this transformational development.”
