The new Universal theme park and resort in Bedford is expected to create nearly 20,000 jobs during the construction period, with a further 8,000 when it opens on the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks site in 2031.
Universal says it is going to be working with local colleges and universities to train employees through apprenticeships and internships.
The company expects the site to generate nearly £50 billion for the economy by 2055, with 8.5 million visitors expected in its first year – becoming the largest visitor attraction in the UK.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the multi-billion-pound investment will see “Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage”.
Universal Destinations & Experiences said that 80 per cent of those employed in the new jobs would be from the local area.
The development, working with Bedford Borough Council, will be the first Universal-branded theme park and resort destination in Europe and will be part of a larger 476-acre entertainment resort complex.
Proposed plans from Universal Destinations & Experiences, a business unit of Comcast, include a theme park with several themed lands, rides, attractions and entertainment.
Initial resort plans also feature a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining and entertainment complex.
Mayor of Bedford Borough, Tom Wootton, said: “This is a landmark moment for Bedford Borough.
“Universal’s decision to proceed with its theme park and resort in the UK brings exciting opportunities to our doorstep – thousands of jobs, new training and career paths, and a huge boost for local businesses.
“Bedford is the perfect place for this investment – well-connected, full of talent, and ready to grow. We’re proud to be chosen as the home of Universal in the UK.
“I’m delighted that our residents and communities will benefit in the years and decades ahead. I will continue to work closely with Universal and local stakeholders to deliver for them.”
Laura Church, Chief Executive of Bedford Borough Council, added: “I am excited about the next phase and the borough’s role in elevating the UK’s profile as a leader in the visitor economy and creative industries.
“With continued sustainable growth, Bedford Borough is poised to become a must-visit destination and a prime hub for business investment, driving growth for our community.
“At opening, Universal will be one of the largest employers in the region, and it is expected that approximately 80 per cent of employees will come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton & Milton Keynes.
“We have been working closely with Universal Destinations & Experiences for over two years, in partnership with national Government and regional stakeholders, and it’s great to see the progress made today.”
Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast Corporation, said: “We could not be more excited to take this very important step in our plan to create and deliver an incredible Universal theme park and resort in the heart of the United Kingdom, which complements our growing US-based parks business by expanding our global footprint to Europe.
“We appreciate the leadership and support of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Minister for Investment Poppy Gustafsson, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy and their teams, as we work together to create and deliver a fantastic new landmark destination.”
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Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “At a time of global change, this investment is a vote of confidence in Britain as a place to do business.
“Universal’s investment will bring billions to the economy and create thousands of jobs to the UK, putting more money in people’s pockets.”
Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said: “Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity and is part of our strategy to introduce the Universal brand and experiences to new audiences around the globe.
“We appreciate the incredible support for our proposed project and look forward to bringing it to life in the years ahead.”
The proposals remain subject to a planning decision from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.