Browne Jacobson aids Bedford Borough Council

The first Universal theme park and resort is set to establish roots in the UK, with Browne Jacobson providing legal support as Bedford Borough Council navigates the delivery phase of this monumental project. Spanning 268 hectares near Kempston Hardwick, this resort is anticipated to attract over eight million visitors annually when it opens in 2031. Universal Destinations & Experiences secured planning approval last year through a Special Development Order, marking a significant milestone towards making this vision a reality.

Browne Jacobson has been enlisted to advise the local authority on planning, highways, and governance matters linked to the development. Will Thomas, Partner in planning at Browne Jacobson, expressed pride in the opportunity, stating “This is one of the most ambitious building projects happening in Britain right now and to be supporting the relevant local authority is a privilege.” He further highlighted the impact the resort will have on the area, noting that the brand's introduction will generate "tens of thousands of jobs" and create "a significant economic uplift from millions of tourists every year."

Set to rise on the site of a former brickworks, the Bedford resort's preliminary plans include an expansive theme park with some of Europe’s tallest rides, a 500-room hotel, and a vibrant complex for dining, retail, and entertainment. It is projected that the Universal United Kingdom Resort will contribute an impressive £50 billion to the economy, with 20,000 jobs created during its construction phase and an additional 8,000 upon its launch.

Bedford Borough Council’s Chief Executive Laura Church remarked on the project's approval by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, asserting that “This truly puts Bedford on the map as a global destination for tourism, creativity and innovation for generations to come.” She emphasised the immediate job opportunities the resort will generate, highlighting that “approximately 80% of employees will come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes.” Universal, she noted, is eager to collaborate with local residents and businesses.

Browne Jacobson's expertise in guiding a range of public and private sector planning initiatives includes previous significant projects like Otterpool Park Garden Town and the Lower Thames Crossing development order. Their involvement with the Universal project marks a key chapter not only in the law firm’s trajectory but also in Bedford's economic landscape, establishing it as a prominent player in the realm of global tourism.