The American media giant Comcast Corp has chosen an area north of London for its first Universal theme park and resort in Europe.
The group, which owns the film franchises „Jurassic Park” and „Back to the Future,” as well as the license for the „Harry Potter” theme park, stated that the park in Bedford will create 20,000 jobs during construction and another 8,000 in the hospitality and creative industries when it opens in 2031, according to Reuters.
It is estimated to attract 8.5 million visitors in the first year, a number currently exceeded in Europe only by Disneyland Paris.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Finance Secretary Rachel Reeves joined Comcast executives on Wednesday to announce the theme park. "This will boost growth here and across the country," Starmer said.
The Labour government has committed to stimulating infrastructure investment since being elected last year, and the UK economy needs a new boost after the largest tax increase budget in 1993 affected business confidence in October.
The announcement comes after the Government approved the expansion of Luton Airport, located approximately 32 kilometers from the Universal site, boosting the area's international connectivity.
"This is our 'Plan for Change' in action, bringing investment, opportunities, growth, jobs, and, of course, joy to the UK," Starmer said.
Universal has five resorts and parks in the U.S. states of California and Florida, as well as in Singapore, Japan, and China, offering attractions based on its film franchises.
Plans for the new location include a park with multiple themed lands, a 500-room hotel, and a complex of retail, restaurants, and entertainment.
Comcast owns Sky, which is the largest pay-TV company in Europe.