Universal considering UK theme park in Bedford

[Flash Shift]

The possibilities for this park seem endless, but I'd imagine they'll mostly stick to the same popular IPs as at other parks. Also, the cynic in me says they'll mostly go for themed experiences and not have many extreme coasters, but I really want to be proven wrong. Merlin need competition so badly and the UK needs that park that competes with the rest of Europe. Needs a park where things stay open consistently

 

[Graeme]

The possibilities for this park seem endless, but I'd imagine they'll mostly stick to the same popular IPs as at other parks. Also, the cynic in me says they'll mostly go for themed experiences and not have many extreme coasters, but I really want to be proven wrong. Merlin need competition so badly and the UK needs that park that competes with the rest of Europe. Needs a park where things stay open consistently

Definitely. One extreme coaster per park, in my opinion. Probably something a bit like Velocicoaster in the main park, as well as the equivalent of Hagrid's. Then hopefully a Park 2 with a B&M hyper.

...

Another thing worth keeping an eye on is Wixams Station (which is to the east of the plot). The 2-platform version has been planned for years, but the plan was adjusted for 4 platforms if Universal goes ahead. Construction has started, which may be a clue that a decision has been made about the theme park. If it turns out they are building the 4-platform version (as discussed about 3 minutes into this video), we can take that as a good sign:

 

[Tonkso]

They are building for two with provision for four.

 

[Matt N]

In a very promising development, Bloomberg have suggested that Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves will be announcing the Universal park as part of a speech about stimulating economic growth in the UK later this month: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/arti...on-in-push-for-growth?leadSource=uverify wall

The article mainly talks about the Heathrow third runway, but here’s the key bit:

Other projects poised to be signed off after being delayed are the Lower Thames Crossing, a road tunnel beneath London’s Thames River, and a Universal Studios theme park north of the capital, [people familiar with the matter] said.

I think this is a pretty promising development, if true!

 

[Wandering Northener]

Universal Studios UK - Site clearance begins - January 2025

Likely due to bird nesting season, equipment is on site removing trees.

youtu.be

Equipment on site clearing vegetation, likely to avoid nesting season.

 

[Niles]

Its great to see some news as it had all gone a bit quiet, i really hope they get the go ahead but it's looking promising.

I also see some news articles have come out in the last few days about the Puy Du Fou park that may come north of Oxford : Link

Crazy to think there is a chance (even if a very slim one) that two great parks could be coming to the UK