We’re thrilled to have Universal Destinations & Experiences, one of Comcast’s major subsidiaries, joining us! They want to create Europe’s first Universal theme park on the site of the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks beside Bedford. The company has now made an official request for planning permission from the local government. The project partners hope to break ground in 2026 and open the park by 2031. This ambitious project is set to feature a large lake surrounded by numerous rides, promising to transform the area into a vibrant entertainment hub.
The theme park’s proposed location is not free of fault lines. Local residents aren’t necessarily all in favor of the proposed development. Others are concerned that it will damage the existing housing markets and property values in the surrounding area. As someone who recently re-located to Kempston during the pandemic, David Burns is one such example. He is hopeful for the park’s future though. Burns is currently renovating his five-bedroom Grade II listed home and believes that the theme park could bring positive change to the community.
Tourism Property commentator, Julie Ford from Gothard Rowe says the park will undoubtedly bring tourists flocking and energise the local economy. She cautions that it may be the thing that makes or breaks the housing market in Bedford. She noted that the theme park’s construction will have positive and negative impacts. Most especially, it will impact property values and housing costs throughout the Miami metro area.
Nye Jones, a member of Generation Rent, voices concern over the rising cost of rent. This increase is a direct response to the park’s creation, and it’s hitting private renters hard. This June, the average private rent in Bedford hit £1,125 a month. This is an 8.7% bump from last year. Jones is concerned that the new wave of settlers and rich investors would just exacerbate these negative trends. Taken together, this will push housing out of reach for many local residents.
Community response is still mixed as stakeholders continue to weigh in on the expected positive and negative impacts of this massive development. Supporters say the major theme park will provide high-paying jobs and mega tourism dollars. Opponents fear it could have unintended consequences for the housing market and increase rental prices.
As Universal Destinations & Experiences moves forward with its plans, local authorities are tasked with balancing economic development against community needs. Regardless of the outcome of this current planning request, the result will have lasting impact on every Flushing resident and potential visitor.
