Universal Studios Bedfordshire granted planning permission

PRESS RELEASE FROM ALISTAIR STRATHERN MP

TUESDAY 16^th DECEMBER 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Alistair Strathern, MP for Hitchin and the surrounding villages in Beds and Herts, has welcomed the fantastic news that the Universal Studios Bedfordshire Theme Park has been granted planning permission.

The decision was confirmed today by Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary Steve Reed.

Since his very first day as a Bedfordshire MP back in 2023, Strathern has been in contact with Universal to support their work. Alongside promoting their vision, he has shared local constituent concerns to ensure the approved plans work for our local towns and villages.

The project is expected to create a huge 28,000 local jobs and bring in a massive £50 billion for our economy.

Its opening is scheduled for 2031, with millions of visitors expected annually.

It constitutes one of the biggest investments in our region in history, and will be transformational for local business including hospitality, travel and accommodation. This offers an exciting opportunity to put Bedfordshire firmly on the map for tourism.

The Universal site is planned to be at Kempston beside the A421, just south of Bedford, joining the company’s world-renowned parks in Hollywood, Orlando, Singapore, and Beijing.

Alistair Strathern MP said:

“This is fantastic news for our region. From young people seeking work to local businesses looking to grow, this project offers exciting opportunities for Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, and beyond.

“I’ve been proud to support Universal’s plans from day one and will continue working to ensure this development benefits all our communities. There’s plenty to do before opening day, and I’ll be there every step of the way.”

Notes for Editors

You can see more information about the project here.