Exciting Plans for the UK’s First Universal Studios Theme Park
Universal Studios has unveiled detailed planning documents for its upcoming theme park in the UK, revealing ambitious plans to create one of the most exciting and immersive entertainment experiences in Europe. This new resort is set to be a major attraction, featuring a range of rides and attractions based on popular Universal franchises such as Jurassic Park, Minions, and Jaws.
The proposed theme park will include attractions that reach up to 377 feet (115 metres) in height, making them the tallest rollercoasters in Europe. This decision is aimed at ensuring the park can compete with other top-tier attractions across the continent. The current tallest ride in the UK is Thorpe Park’s Hyperia at 236 feet (72 metres), while the tallest in Europe is Red Force at 367 feet (112 metres) located at PortAventura World in Spain.
According to the planning documents, taller attractions are more common in Europe due to space constraints. Building higher rather than wider allows for better use of land, which aligns with local planning policies. Universal is seeking approval for the project through a Special Development Order (SDO), which would allow the government to approve the development directly without going through local planning authorities.
The consultation process for the project is open until August 31, after which the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) will evaluate the public response before making a final decision. Once approved, the park is expected to attract around 8.5 million visitors annually, with 55,000 guests on peak days.
Access and Infrastructure
The park will be easily accessible via a grand tree-lined boulevard for drivers and a purpose-built transport hub for public transport users. Visitors will arrive at a large entry plaza, open to both ticket-holders and non-ticket-holders, featuring restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Paying guests will enter the main park through an iconic Universal archway.
The park will be divided into four main zones: the Core Zone, Lake Zone, East Gateway Zone, and West Gateway Zone. The Core Zone will serve as the central heart of the attraction, potentially housing a theme park, water park, and amusement park. The Lake Zone will feature a new wetland habitat, business hotels with 2,000 rooms, and supporting entertainment infrastructure.
Adjacent to the future Wixams Rail Station, the East Gateway Zone will be a key access point for train travelers. Meanwhile, the West Gateway Zone will become home to a 200-room hotel, petrol station, restaurants, and additional entertainment spaces.
Additional Amenities and Features
Universal is also planning to operate music and dance venues, nightclubs, and even tattoo parlours. The park will include event spaces for shows, parades, and displays. Across the site, there will be over 7,100 parking spaces, 100 coach bays, and 250 cycle spaces.
Infrastructure upgrades will include a new junction on the A421, a dual carriageway access road, and enhancements to the Wixams Rail Station, with shuttle services connecting to the Thameslink line.
Inclusivity is a key focus for the park, with all pathways designed to be wheelchair accessible. Smooth surfaces, ramps, lifts, and accessible accommodation and toilets will ensure that everyone can enjoy the experience. Each ride will also include seating options designed for guests with mobility impairments.
Environmental and Community Impact
Environmental and community impact are also important considerations. The park plans to improve local roads, create wetland habitats, and provide job opportunities that will benefit communities in Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes. It is anticipated that the park will employ 8,500 staff by opening day, rising to 10,000 by 2051, with 80 per cent expected to come from the local area.
If approved, construction is set to begin in 2026, with an opening date targeted for 2031. On-site amenities will include a minimum of 500 hotel rooms, with future capacity for more, and easy transport links to London and Luton airports.
Universal promises a world-class experience, where guests will encounter blockbuster attractions, adrenaline-pumping coasters, and mind-blowing spectaculars. They will come face-to-face with incredible creatures, heroes, and villains, discover great food, new laughs, new ways to play, and step into immersive worlds they’ve only ever dreamed of.
