The first Universal theme park and resort is coming to the UK – and Browne Jacobson is supporting the relevant local authority as the project moves into the delivery phase. 

The UK and Ireland law firm has been appointed by Bedford Borough Council to advise the authority on specific planning and highways matters associated with the 268-hectare Universal United Kingdom Resort, which is expected to attract more than eight million visitors per year when it opens in 2031. 

Last year, operator Universal Destinations & Experiences received planning permission from the government via a Special Development Order to build the complex in Kempston Hardwick, near Bedford.

Browne Jacobson’s planning, real estate, and government and infrastructure teams are now advising the local authority on some associated planning, highways and governance matters relating to the project. 

Will Thomas, Partner in planning at Browne Jacobson, said: “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.

“Universal is a world-renowned brand and Bedford Borough Council is rightly proud to be welcoming the first one in the UK and Europe to its local area, which will benefit from tens of thousands of jobs being created and a significant economic uplift from millions of tourists every year. 

“We’re excited to be supporting the council in ensuring this major development moves forward as smoothly as possible.”

Universal currently operates destinations across the globe in Los Angeles, Frisco Texas, Las Vegas and Orlando, United States; Osaka, Japan; Beijing, China; and Singapore.

The Bedford resort will be built at a former brickworks and on neighbouring land. Initial plans include a theme park and resort featuring some of the tallest rides in Europe, as well as a 500-room hotel and retail, dining and entertainment complex. 

Universal United Kingdom Resort is expected to generate nearly £50bn of economic benefit to the economy and create about 20,000 jobs during the construction period alone, as well as a further 8,000 jobs once operational.  

Commenting on the project being green-lit by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government in December 2025, Bedford Borough Council’s Chief Executive Laura Church said: “This truly puts Bedford on the map as a global destination for tourism, creativity and innovation for generations to come.

“It begins with tens of thousands of construction jobs, followed by the many more roles when the park opens. The millions of visitors each year will offer possibilities for our economy and our residents in hospitality, retail, technology and so much more.

“When the resort opens, it will be one of the largest employers in the region, and it is expected that approximately 80% of employees will come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes. Universal wants to work with our residents and our businesses.”

Browne Jacobson’s planning team works with public and private sector clients on the full breadth of planning and compulsory purchase matters. Significant schemes it has advised on include the Otterpool Park Garden Town, Lower Thames Crossing development consent order and a 5,000-home urban extension in the West Midlands. 

For more information about the Universal United Kingdom Resort, visit universalukproject.co.uk.