Bedford has taken a giant step towards welcoming Universal Destinations & Experiences after the Government approved the request for planning permission by a Special Development Order (SDO).
Today’s announcement follows several years of close collaboration between Universal, councillors and council staff.
It is a major step towards Europe’s first Universal-branded theme park and resort opening in Bedford Borough. The project will provide a c.£50billion economic benefit to the economy, while creating around 20,000 jobs during the construction period alone.
Tom Wootton, Mayor of Bedford Borough described the news as “one of the proudest moments of my political life.”
He said; “I’d love to take all the credit for this – but I can’t! This is the result of so much hard work by so many people, and it will be something that has a huge, positive impact on countless lives even when I’m long forgotten. It’s one of the proudest moments of my political life.
“This is a huge vote of confidence in Bedford and Kempston, in the borough and region, and in the Council. This is the perfect place for this investment, well-connected, full of talent, and ready to grow. I know that our residents and businesses will seize all the opportunities that this will offer us, and I’ll work with Universal night and day to ensure our partnership can continue to bloom.”
An SDO is a special type of planning permission for major schemes, which is granted by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MCHLG) instead of by a council.
Whilst there are still further planning steps to complete, today’s announcement is a key milestone.
Bedford Borough Council chief executive Laura Church said that Universal would be a key driver for the Borough’s economy.
She said; “This truly puts Bedford on the map, as a global destination for tourism, creativity and innovation for generations to come.
“It begins with tens of thousands of construction jobs, followed by the many more roles when the park opens. The millions of visitors each year will offer possibilities for our economy and our residents in hospitality, retail, technology and so much more.
“When the resort opens it will be one of the largest employers in the region, and it is expected that approximately 80% of employees will come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton & Milton Keynes. Universal want to work with our residents and our businesses.”