Blackpool Pleasure Beach boss welcomes Universal’s huge investment in UK industry

The boss of the Blackpool Pleasure Beach visitor attraction has welcomed confirmation that US media giant, Comcast, is to open a Universal theme park in the UK.

The multibillion-pound investment, creating up to 28,000 jobs, was confirmed today (April 9) by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Film giant Universal Studios opened its first theme park in Orlando, Florida, featuring numerous rides, attractions, and live shows that are primarily themed to movies, television, and other aspects of the entertainment industry.

Universal has chosen Bedford for its first theme park in Europe.

The site is set to open in the early 2030s and is tipped to become a multi-million visitor attraction.

Industry experts say it will attract visitors from overseas as well as a domestic audience, all loyal to a huge range of film and TV brands, generating a massive economic boost for the UK.

The visitor sector is the third largest employer in the UK.

Following news of the massive investment, Amanda Thompson, CEO of Blackpool’s Pleasure Beach Resort, has thrown her support behind the announcement, saying: “I am thrilled that Universal has chosen the UK as the country to invest in.

“It is wonderful that Sir Keir Starmer’s government have supported this venture.

“The industry has at last been recognised as an area worth investing in.

“This will bring inbound tourism as well as supporting the UK economy.”

She added: “It is the most significant global development in our industry within the UK in my lifetime.

“I hope this project wil give our government the determination to understand the value of leisure and entertainment and demonstrate their commitment to our industry.”

She said: “I have supported this project from the start.”

Universal is set to be constructed on the site of the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks, near Bedford, and is set to open in 2031.

It is estimated the 476-acre complex could attract 8.5 million visitors in its first year and will create jobs across construction, artificial intelligence and tourism.

A full planning proposal will be submitted to the Government, with construction expected to start in 2026.