Universal confirmed on Thursday it had submitted a request to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to secure planning permission for the new resort without going through the normal local planning process.

The scheme would be Universal’s first branded theme park in Europe and will feature several themed lands, immersive rides, on-site hotels, and a full range of retail, dining, and entertainment attractions.

If the secretary of state grants planning, work could start next year creating 20,000 construction jobs with 5,000 on site at the peak.

The site of the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks will be transformed during a five-year construction programme with the new theme park due to open in 2031 and 8.5m visitors expected in its first year.

It would also trigger a raft of long-promised transport upgrades including an expanded Wixams railway station, new direct slip roads off the A421, and wider road improvements.

Universal said: “The past year has enabled us to closely engage with Bedford Borough Council, neighbouring authorities, national government, transport and environmental bodies and local communities.”

More than 92% of residents backed the proposals during public engagement in April 2024.