A new Universal theme park in the UK is projected to significantly boost the economy.
- The proposed site in Bedford is expected to create 20,000 jobs during construction.
- An estimated £35.1 billion in economic contribution is anticipated over 20 years.
- The theme park aims to attract millions of additional international visitors.
- Up to £14.1 billion in tax returns could benefit HM Treasury.
A proposed Universal theme park in the UK is poised to offer a substantial economic uplift, with projections suggesting it could inject more than £35 billion into the local economy. The site in Bedford is expected to become a prominent attraction in the UK, likely drawing millions of international visitors and greatly enhancing the country’s tourism profile.
During its construction phase, the theme park is anticipated to create 20,000 jobs, with a peak on-site workforce of 5,000 workers. This period will be pivotal in boosting local employment rates and supporting community development.
The economic impact analysis, commissioned by Universal Destinations & Experiences, forecasts a net economic contribution of £35.1 billion over the construction phase and the first 20 years of operation. This analysis underscores the significant long-term benefits the project could deliver to the UK economy.
Once operational, the theme park is projected to create initially 8,000 new jobs, with numbers expected to rise. The jobs will range across multiple disciplines, offering high-quality employment opportunities with a commitment to paying the living wage. Universal’s experience suggests that each job within the park could support at least 1.5 further jobs indirectly throughout various sectors of the economy.
The project’s wider economic benefits include an estimated £14.1 billion in net additional tax returns for HM Treasury. Such a financial influx highlights the potential fiscal advantages of the theme park, from direct economic activity to indirect industry stimulation.
Universal Destinations & Experiences President, Page Thompson, emphasised the transformative potential of this project, noting: “A world-class theme park and resort from Universal has the potential to generate billions in economic benefit for the UK, by creating thousands of high-quality jobs and attracting millions of new visitors to the country.”
The Universal UK theme park project promises significant economic growth and job creation, poised to become a transformative force in the UK’s tourism landscape.
