CEO of famous UK seaside town theme park speaks out on big Universal news

The CEO of a major UK theme park has spoken out on the plans for a to be built in the UK. Earlier this week, confirmed the project will go ahead following negotiations with Universal Destinations & Experiences. Set to be the first in Europe, the attraction will be a major gain for the UK economy.

Amanda Thompson OBE, CEO of Blackpool's Pleasure Beach Resort has thrown her support behind the announcement, saying: "I am thrilled that Universal has chosen the UK as the country to invest in. It is wonderful that Sir Keir Starmer's government have supported this venture. The industry has at last been recognised as an area worth investing in. This will bring inbound tourism as well as supporting the UK economy."

She added: "It is the most significant global development in our industry within the UK in my lifetime."

It is estimated the 476-acre complex could attract 8.5 million visitors in its first year and will create roles across construction, artificial intelligence and tourism.

The UK government is also predicted to gain an additional £14.1bn in tax revenue over a 20-year period. Of the millions of tourists predicted to visit, approximately one-third is expected to come from overseas in a major lift to the tourism industry.

"I hope this project will give our government the determination to understand the value of leisure and entertainment and demonstrate their commitment to our industry," Ms Thompson said.

"I have supported this project from the start."

Universal is set to be constructed on the site of the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks near Bedford and would create an estimated 28,000 jobs before opening in 2031.

Nearly half of these are predicted to be direct employment, while the rest provide services to supply the site. Initial estimates suggest that over 75% of the workforce would come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes.

A full planning proposal will be submitted to the UK government with construction expected to start in 2026.

Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said: "Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity and is part of our strategy to introduce the Universal brand and experiences to new audiences around the globe. We appreciate the incredible support for our proposed project and look forward to bringing it to life in the years ahead."