Universal Destinations & Experiences has confirmed it has set up a temporary headquarters in Bedford town centre as work accelerates on its highly anticipated UK theme park development.
The company has taken occupancy of the top floor at Bedford Borough Hall on Cauldwell Street. The building, which also houses Bedford Borough Council, is being prepared to accommodate a growing team dedicated to advancing the project’s next phase.
According to Bedford’s Conservative mayor, Tom Wootton, the newly established office space will host hundreds of professionals working on detailed plans for the future resort. The top floor has been cleared and is currently undergoing fit-out works to create a modern workspace for the incoming team.
A spokesperson for Universal Destinations & Experiences said the company is pleased to be strengthening its presence in the town. “We look forward to continuing to work closely with Bedford Borough Council’s leadership and officers and appreciate their continued support as we establish a temporary base for our team in Bedford,” the spokesperson said.
The landmark attraction received planning approval in December for a 268-hectare (662-acre) site at Kempston Hardwick, located south of Bedford. The resort is projected to welcome approximately 8.5 million visitors annually once it opens, currently scheduled for 2031.
The decision to locate its temporary headquarters in Bedford represents a significant vote of confidence in the town. The presence of a global entertainment brand is expected to generate substantial economic benefits, create new employment opportunities, and elevate Bedford’s profile on both a national and international stage. Local leaders believe the development will act as a catalyst for further investment, infrastructure improvements, and long-term growth across the region.
As plans continue to take shape, the launch of Universal’s Bedford office marks an important milestone in transforming this landmark theme park project from vision into reality.
