Mayor Tom Wootton has welcomed the start of work on-site at Universal Destinations & Experiences’ (UDX) first-ever European theme park and resort.
The attraction will be one of the biggest of its kind in the world, with the Borough standing shoulder to shoulder as the home of Universal alongside other destinations such as Orlando, Beijing and Osaka.
UDX expect the project to contribute £50billion to the UK economy over the construction period and first 20 years of operation, including an estimated £14billion in net additional tax returns for HMT over the same period.
Tom Wootton, Mayor of Bedford Borough said; “Our vision has been straightforward: This world-class resort offers an unprecedented opportunity for our town, our borough, our people and our businesses.
“We’ve rolled out the red carpet for Universal, we’ve worked closely with them – so closely that they’ve opened offices in Borough Hall, with their staff working in the heart of Bedford! Now we’re starting to reap the benefits.”
He added; “This investment will have a lasting legacy in the Borough for generations to come. It’s not just about making it an unmissable destination for visitors from the UK and across the world; it’s about creating apprenticeships, upskilling our existing workforce, and taking the range of opportunities for young people to a whole new level.
“Our region is already a hub for tech industries, and this multi-billion-pound investment will further create new Bedford-based jobs in creative industries, engineering, construction and hospitality. And Universal has a strong track record of working with local partners, the Council and wider stakeholders.
“The eyes of the world are now on Bedford Borough, and they’re seeing that it really is the centre of the universe.”