The new Universal theme park resort in Bedford, England is officially Universal United Kingdom Resort. The logo has also been revealed.
Universal United Kingdom Resort
The official name was announced after the resort’s ground-breaking ceremony with executives on Wednesday, June 3. Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy hosted Brian Roberts, Chairman of Comcast Corporation, and Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, at 11 Downing Street to unveil the name and logo (below).
Universal’s construction plans were approved by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government late last year. In February, two major contractors were confirmed to construct several facilities.
The resort is located about 45 minutes outside of London. Between construction and operation, it will create 28,000 jobs. The resort is designed to accommodate 8.5 million annual visitors with 55,000 per peak day in the opening year. They expect 12.5 million visitors in the year following the opening.
Comcast NBCUniversal has committed to invest over £5 billion (almost $7 billion) during the expected five years of construction construction, plus £1 billion ($1.3 billion) over the first 10 years of operation. The government will support the project with an investment of £1.3 billion ($1.7 billion) on changes to regional and local community infrastructure.
The opening is currently set for 2031.
“This unparalleled investment is a huge vote of confidence in the UK and puts rocket boosters under our entertainment industry,” said Secretary Nandy. “When it comes to creating world class experiences, the UK is second to none. We’re proud to be backing British industry, investing in local talent and partnering with powerhouses like Universal to create jobs, growth and opportunities across the UK.”
Chancellor Reeves said, “This landmark investment in the heart of the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor will unlock nearly £50 billion of economic growth and create tens of thousands of jobs across Bedfordshire in construction, hospitality, creative and technology sectors.
“Our own investment in transport and infrastructure means that local people will benefit — improving connectivity, backing our creative industries, and bringing millions of visitors to the UK from across the world.
“We have the right economic plan — working with global investors and local leaders so we can deliver jobs, opportunity and long‑term prosperity for Britain.”
Universal Destinations & Experiences CEO Mark Woodbury said, “Today marks a significant milestone on our journey to bring Universal United Kingdom Resort, featuring immersive storytelling, thrilling attractions and unparalleled creativity and innovation to the UK. This new theme park and resort will create so many new opportunities for the people of Bedford and beyond and allow us to share our distinct experiences with guests from around the world.”
“This is a proud moment for our company as we bring the first Universal theme park and resort to Europe,” said Comcast Co-CEOs Brian Roberts and Mike Cavanagh. “The United Kingdom is a highly attractive market and builds on the significant investments we’ve made elsewhere around the globe to create extraordinary experiences for millions of guests that are rooted in the stories and worlds only Universal can deliver.”
Read more about Universal United Kingdom Resort.
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