South East Midlands leaders unite in support of transformative Universal Destinations & Experiences project

Growth, plans and policies

18 July 2024

South East Midlands leaders unite in support of transformative Universal Destinations & Experiences project

The leaders and chief executives of the six local authorities representing the South East Midlands region have collectively endorsed the Universal Destinations & Experiences theme park and resort project. In a letter sent to the Prime Minister, the region's leadership emphasised the transformative potential of this initiative.

The project promises to create 20,000 jobs during construction, with an additional 20,000 jobs generated directly and, in the supply-chain during the operation of the resort. This significant job creation underscores the economic impact the project will have on the region, and set the South East Midlands as one of the foremost visitor destinations in Europe and the World.

Attracting such a huge, globally respected name as Universal Studios to our region will be a massive boost for the area as well as for the economy both in terms of the opportunities to be involved with the build but also the running of the park afterwards. This is an immensely exciting project and we’re absolutely committed to making it become a reality.Jason Smithers, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council
We’re uniting with the leaders and chief executives of our neighbouring authorities to demonstrate just how important this project is for our region and for the many, many benefits it would bring to our communities and the economy. This sort of opportunity does not come along very often and we must do what we can to make it happen.Adele Wylie, Chief Executive of North Northamptonshire Council

The letter is signed by the chief executives and political leaders of Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire, Luton Borough, Milton Keynes City, North Northamptonshire, and West Northamptonshire councils, demonstrating strong regional support for the project.