Comcast, the US media conglomerate, has disclosed that it has invested over £130 million in the development of its Universal theme park project in Bedford. The expansive 540-acre resort is scheduled to open in 2031 and is expected to become one of Europe’s leading entertainment destinations.

The planned theme park will feature attractions based on popular franchises such as Jurassic World, James Bond, and Paddington. Forecasts anticipate that the resort will initially draw approximately 8.5 million visitors annually, with attendance projected to increase to 12 million within two decades. If these estimates hold, the park would surpass Disneyland Paris as the continent’s most visited theme park.

In addition to the theme park itself, the development will include a 500-room hotel along with extensive shopping and dining options. The project is also expected to have a significant economic impact, with an estimated 28,000 jobs to be created both during construction and operation phases.

Financial disclosures indicate that by the end of 2023, Comcast group companies had provided loans totaling £132.6 million to the project’s developer, UDX, intended for land acquisition and initial site work. The UK government has also committed substantial financial support, pledging £1.3 billion for the broader development surrounding the theme park.

These investments underline the scale and ambition of the project, which is poised to become a major attraction in the region and a significant boost to the local economy. The planned opening in 2031 remains on track, with construction and further development expected to progress over the coming years.