Universal's new UK theme park could feature the tallest rides in EU
In documents submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), Universal proposes building attractions reaching up to 377 feet (115 metres) - making them taller than any ride currently operating in Europe. The current tallest ride in the UK is Thorpe Park's Hyperia, standing at 236 feet (72 metres), while the tallest ride in Europe is Red Force at 367 feet (112 metres), located at PortAventura World in Spain.
'The reason for proposing structures up to this maximum height is to allow the proposed theme park to compete with other attractions in Europe,' according to the documents. 'Although the Universal Orlando Resort does not currently have attractions up to this height, taller attractions are more common in Europe, where rides need to be taller to create the experience, as space is more constrained. Building attractions that are higher, rather than over greater areas, also makes the best use of land which is in line with planning policy.'
Universal is seeking permission for the project through a Special Development Order (SDO), allowing the government to approve the project directly, bypassing local planning authorities. The consultation process is open until August 31, after which MHCLG will assess the public response before making a final decision.
Universal Studios is expected to welcome 8.5 million visitors annually, with 55,000 guests on peak days. The park will be accessed via a grand tree-lined boulevard for drivers and a purpose-built transport hub for public transport users. Guests will arrive at a large entry plaza - open to ticket-holders and non-ticket-holders alike - featuring restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
Paying guests will enter the main park through an iconic Universal archway. The park itself will be divided into four main zones, including the Core Zone, which will be the central heart of the attraction, potentially housing a theme park, water park, and amusement park. The Lake Zone will boast a new wetland habitat, business hotels with 2,000 rooms, and supporting entertainment infrastructure. Adjacent to the future Wixams Rail Station, the East Gateway Zone will be a key access point for visitors arriving by train.
=The West Gateway Zone, meanwhile, will become home to a 200-room hotel, petrol station, restaurants, and additional entertainment spaces. The park also seeks to operate music and dance venues, nightclubs and even tattoo parlours, along with creating events spaces for shows, parades and displays. Across the site, Universal plans to develop over 7,100 parking spaces, 100 coach bays, and 250 cycle spaces. Infrastructure upgrades will include a new junction on the A421, a dual carriageway access road, and enhancements to the Wixams Rail Station, with shuttle services connecting to the Thameslink line.
Universal is placing a strong emphasis on inclusivity, with all pathways designed to be wheelchair accessible, with smooth surfaces, ramps, lifts, and accessible accommodation and toilets. Each ride will include seating options designed for guests with mobility impairments. Environmental and community impact is also a focus, with planned improvements to local roads, the creation of wetland habitats, and job opportunities expected to benefit communities in Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes.
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