EXCLUSIVE: The traveller site sits within the immediate area of the anticipated Universal Studios plotted for the outskirts of Bedford, meaning some 22 household may need to be moved on
Universal Studios could face a rollercoaster ride building its mega UK theme park – as it stands near purpose-built travellers’ site.
The council-run enclosure sits just a few hundred metres from the multi million pound project in Bedfordshire
But a bitter row could be sparked with the travellers – who have been left in limbo over the future of their homes.
Universal Studios wants to the open its first European themed park in 2031 – but any any dispute would throw that ofcourse and the £50billion its expected to make for the UK economy.
Bedford Borough Council has said that “no decision has been made” about weather to relocate travellers on the site on Ampthill Road not far from the development.
The 476-acre site is planned for Kemptson Hardwick, to the southwest of Bedford, a tiny area with few houses, a car auctioneer and a traveller site on Ampthill Road.
The Kempston Hardwick caravan site, which currently charges £120.25 per week for one of its 22 pitches.
Now the future of the community is up in the air ahead of the development, due for completion in 2031.
Claire Halliwell, Manager for Communications and Communities, told the Daily Star: “The traveller community was actively involved in the company’s public engagement programme last summer, and the Council continues to support the local traveller community through dedicated outreach workers.
“The company has made efforts to consult widely and transparently on the development, and further details about the proposals are available on their website.
“No decisions have been made regarding the removal of existing sites as part of the planned development.”
The announcement of the theme park has raised hopes of an economic boost. As well as the new theme park, the 476 acre site will boast a retail and entertainment complex as well as a new hotel and expects to attract 8.5 million visitors within the first year.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer backed the plans, saying the attraction will create around 28,000 jobs – 20,000 in the construction period and 8,000 working on the site when it opens to visitors in 2031.
On Tuesday he said: “Today we closed the deal on a multi-billion-pound investment that will see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage.
“This is our Plan for Change in action, combining local and national growth with creating around 28,000 new jobs across sectors such as construction, AI, and tourism.
“It is not just about numbers; it’s about securing real opportunities for people in our country.
“Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK, getting people into work and ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive.”
Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast Corporation, said at the time of the annoucement of the park: “We could not be more excited to take this very important step in our plan to create and deliver an incredible Universal theme park and resort in the heart of the United Kingdom, which complements our growing US-based parks business by expanding our global footprint to Europe.
“We appreciate the leadership and support of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Minister for Investment Poppy Gustafsson, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy and their teams, as we work together to create and deliver a fantastic new landmark destination.”