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EUROPE'S FIRST UNIVERSAL THEME PARK IS PROPOSED TO OPEN IN BEDFORD IN 2031 BUT THE COUNCIL IS INSISTING THAT A FEW LOCAL IMPROVEMENTS ARE NEEDED FIRST 22:34, 20 May 2025Updated 22:34,
20 May 2025 Plans to build Europe's first Universal Studios' theme park in the UK have fans across the nation excited, but certain upgrades will be needed first. Universal
Destinations & Experiences is set to build the mega tourist attraction near Bedford, specifically on a site that includes former brickworks at Kempston Hardwick near the Bedfordshire
market town. However, a lack of proper infrastructure could impact on plans unless certain issues are addressed first. Independent leader of Central Bedfordshire Council, Adam Zerny,
described the initial park plans, with a projected opening date of 2031 and a Lord of the Rings ride planned, as "great news" but admitted that the council will "demand a
lot" of extra infrastructure work to the nearby area. He warned that locational improvements were needed, including around junction 13 of the M1, which is a key route for accessing the
proposed site from the west. "Universal are well aware of the infrastructure needs that we have continually put forward on behalf of residents," Mr Zerny told the BBC. Article
continues below He added: "We will continue to lobby the government for what we need in this area." Despite no formal planning application being submitted yet, he said that the
council has kept in close contact with the company behind Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort. A full public consultation is expected later this year. Mr Zerny listed
the benefits of the park, including creating "new infrastructure, jobs in construction and on the site once it's completed" and also "potentially increased income for
local businesses." He said that the council, too, would make financial gains from the park. Still, he noted: "Junction 13 does need to be sorted out, and we also believe the
roundabouts should be removed from the A1 to improve the flow of traffic. Article continues below "We will be pushing the government for solutions. We want a lot for this area, and
we're going to demand a lot. Don't ask, don't get." Universal itself said that the project plans would include providing "significant infrastructure improvements,
including major road and rail upgrades". FOR THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS AND STORIES FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE FROM THE DAILY STAR, SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTERS.