Universal Studios has officially announced plans to build its first theme park in the United Kingdom, set to open in Bedfordshire by 2031. The expansive 476-acre resort will feature attractions based on iconic British franchises such as James Bond, Paddington Bear, and The Lord of the Rings. However, notably absent from the lineup are the popular Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World attractions.​

The omission of Harry Potter-themed experiences is likely due to existing exclusivity agreements with Warner Bros., which operates the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, located just 45 minutes from the proposed Universal site. This proximity may have influenced the decision to avoid potential brand conflicts.

Similarly, Super Nintendo World, which has been a significant draw at Universal parks in Japan and the U.S., will not be part of the initial UK park offerings. While no official reason has been provided, it’s possible that strategic considerations and licensing agreements played a role in this decision.​

Park Features and Economic Impact

Despite these exclusions, the UK park promises a range of attractions based on Universal’s existing properties, including Back to the Future, Jurassic Park, and Minions. The resort will also include a 500-room hotel, retail and dining facilities, and both indoor and outdoor rides, such as roller coasters.​

The development is expected to attract approximately 8.5 million visitors annually, significantly boosting the local economy. The project is projected to create around 28,000 jobs—20,000 during construction and 8,000 permanent roles in sectors like hospitality and tourism. Infrastructure improvements, including enhancements to nearby Luton Airport and the construction of a new Wixams train station, are planned to support the anticipated influx of visitors.​

Future Possibilities

While Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World are not part of the initial plans, there is speculation that these attractions could be introduced in the future. Changes in licensing agreements or strategic partnerships may open the door for their inclusion, depending on the park’s success and evolving market dynamics.​

The UK Universal Studios park represents a significant expansion of Universal’s global footprint, joining existing parks in the U.S., Japan, Singapore, and China. As the project progresses, fans can look forward to a unique blend of British cultural icons and Universal’s entertainment offerings.​

Source: thescottishsun.co.uk