Universal sets up base near future theme park site

Universal has established a temporary headquarters close to its planned UK theme park.

The company has taken over the top floor of Bedford Borough Hall on Cauldwell Street, which is already home to Bedford Borough Council.

Conservative mayor Tom Wootton said "hundreds of people" would be based in the council building working on "top secret" plans for the future theme park.

Universal Destinations & Experiences said: "We look forward to continuing to work with Bedford Borough Council's leadership and officers and are appreciative of their ongoing support as we establish a temporary home for the Universal team."

Wootton added that the top floor of the council building had been cleared and was currently being fitted out to accommodate the team.

He continued: "I'm really excited to see that they actually made the decision to have their offices in Bedford and that's a great thing for our town."

The US firm was granted planning permission in December to build a destination spanning 268 hectares (662 acres) on a former brickworks at Kempston Hardwick, south of Bedford.

Universal is expecting 8.5 million annual visitors to the theme park from 2031, when it is scheduled to open.

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