Council bosses endorse Universal theme park plans

Universal Destinations and Experiences plans to  open an all-year-round park near Bedford

Bosses at six local authorities have told the prime minister they "collectively endorse" plans for a Universal Studios theme park near Bedford.

Universal Destinations and Experiences has previously told the BBC it plans to open an all-year-round park after it bought a 476-acre (193-hectare) site at Kempston Hardwick.

Its construction is expected to create 20,000 jobs with a further 20,000 generated directly and in the supply chain when it opens.

A letter sent to Sir Keir Starmer by leaders from the South East Midlands area emphasised the "transformative potential" of the initiative.

Fields and a former brickworks in Stewartby, Bedfordshire have been purchased by Universal Studios

When operational, the resort is expected to generate nearly £50bn for the UK during construction and the first 20 years of operation.

The letter is signed by the chief executives and political leaders of Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire, Luton Borough, Milton Keynes City, North Northamptonshire and West Northamptonshire councils.

They said the "significant job creation underscores the tangible economic impact the potential project will have on the region".

"Additionally, the project’s scale will help set England’s South East Midlands as one of the foremost visitor destinations in Europe and the World," they added.

'Top destination for visitors'

Adam Brown, Conservative leader of West Northamptonshire Council, said the authority wanted to show its "full support and commitment" to working with both Universal and other local authorities to "maximise the benefits for local people and communities".

"With West Northants situated just over 30 minutes from Bedford, this project presents an array of opportunities for our residents including jobs, economic growth and an enhanced visitor economy with tourists from far and wide coming to enjoy everything we have to offer," he said.

Chief executive Anna Earnshaw added that it would present the South Midlands area as "a top destination for visitors from across the UK but also from around the world".

Laura Church, chief executive of Bedford Borough Council, said the authority knew the importance of the project "getting the green light".

She said that as well as being a "major draw" for visitors, it will "help bolster the UK's profile as a leader in the creative industries" and will be a "business investment hub and deliver growth".

Jason Smithers, Conservative leader of North Northamptonshire Council, said attracting such a "huge, globally respected name" to the area would be a "massive boost" and the authority was "absolutely committed to making it become a reality".

Chief executive Adele Wylie said: "This sort of opportunity does not come along very often and we must do what we can to make it happen."

Some residents have expressed concerns about infrastructure, increased traffic volume and noise but Universal has said discussions with relevant transport authorities, local and national government would continue to ensure all elements were in place to support the project.