LONDON, UK: Universal is setting its sights on Britain as the next destination for its global theme park expansion, marking a major entertainment investment just north of London.

Comcast Corp, the U.S. media company behind Universal Parks, confirmed this week that it plans to build its first British theme park and resort in Bedford, England. The attraction will feature rides based on iconic franchises like Jurassic Park and Back to the Future, and will include Universal's Harry Potter-themed experiences.

The project is expected to generate 20,000 jobs during construction and support 8,000 more across the hospitality and creative sectors once it opens in 2031.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and finance minister Rachel Reeves joined Comcast executives in unveiling the plans.

"This will drive growth here and across the country," Starmer said.

The government, under Labour leadership since last year, has been seeking to stimulate investment and economic momentum following a challenging period for business confidence. Recent initiatives include accelerating planning decisions, such as the approved expansion of nearby Luton Airport, located about 20 miles from the Universal site.

"This (theme park) is our 'Plan for Change' in action, bringing investment, bringing opportunity, growth, jobs and, of course, joy to Britain," Starmer added.

Comcast President Mike Cavanagh, who presented the development plans to Starmer in London, said he "could not be more excited" to bring a Universal park and resort to the UK.

The resort is projected to attract 8.5 million visitors in its first year, placing it just behind Disneyland Paris, which currently leads European theme park attendance.

Universal already operates five global locations, including resorts in California, Florida, Japan, Singapore, and China.

The planned UK site will include multiple themed lands, a 500-room hotel, and a retail, dining, and entertainment complex. Comcast acquired the 500-acre former brickworks in Bedfordshire in 2023 and has been in discussions with the UK government since then. Comcast is also the owner of Sky, Europe's largest pay-TV operator.

The development remains subject to planning permission, the government said.