Universal Pictures Opens First Theme Park in Bedfordshire

When news broke that Universal Pictures, a major player in the film industry, had inaugurated its first theme park in Bedfordshire, excitement swept through the fan community.

Social media buzzed with questions: Which movie franchises will be featured? How many rides will there be? Will there be attractions themed around the beloved Minions?

Yet, for local residents, the pressing concern seemed to be whether they would be displaced due to the developments happening nearby.

Residents and businesses in Kempston Hardwick, a quaint area on the outskirts of Kempston, expressed that they had received “absolutely nothing” from the council regarding how the new theme park might impact their day-to-day lives, leading to a growing sense of confusion.

Manor Road, a long narrow street that serves a small community and a handful of local businesses, separates two parcels of land acquired by Universal for the park’s construction.

Amol, owner of a wedding venue, mentioned that he feels the voices of Kempston Hardwick’s residents are being sidelined. While he’s enthusiastic about the potential benefits of the project, he believes communication is lacking. “If we all want to know what we want to talk to each other, we’re not being consulted,” he noted. “We haven’t had any contact with the council. They might think it won’t affect us, but they’re talking to a village just down the road.”

Amol further expressed concerns about the existing roads, indicating they might struggle to manage the anticipated traffic until at least 2031.

Some homes in the Hamlet’s vicinity have reportedly been sold to Universal, but many residents stated they have not yet received any offers from the studio or updates from local authorities.

Rahaul and Colbie, a couple in their late twenties from nearby Kempston who work on Manor Road, shared they had to hasten their plans to purchase their first home. Rahaul reflected, “We’ve been together for a few years. The announcement meant we had to plan quickly because it could become expensive.”

Concerns have arisen about potential property acquisitions by landlords aiming to convert homes into Airbnbs for the influx of visitors expected at the theme park, which could drive rental prices higher.

Rahaul also noted a meeting between a Universal spokesperson and a local representative, but the details shared afterward relied heavily on word of mouth and social media, leaving Kempston Hardwick residents feeling disconnected.

Blakes Stevenson, a Conservative MP representing the Midbedfordshire constituency that includes Universal Studios UK, described the park as a “game changer” for Bedfordshire, adding that residents’ feelings are being taken into account.

“I’m focused on ensuring proper infrastructure development, like roads and accommodations, to engage the local community,” he stated. “I’ve been in touch with Universal throughout this process and met with them again recently. They’re committed to being a considerate neighbor.”

A spokesperson for the Stewartby and Kempston Hardwick Parish Council remarked, “We’ve actively worked to address local interests and regularly update residents through newsletters and social media to ensure proper revisions to the original plans.” They also mentioned that the residents of Manor Road have unique circumstances relating to the proposal and have had direct communication with Universal, deeming it inappropriate for the Parish Council to intervene at this stage.