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Biggleswade urged to seize resort opportunities early
20 Oct
Summary
- A report suggests Biggleswade should leverage upcoming resort benefits before its 2031 opening.
- Improvements in hospitality and transport links are recommended for the town.
- Funding for projects could come from developer contributions or government grants.
Biggleswade is being urged to prepare for the arrival of the Universal UK Resort, scheduled to open in 2031 near Bedford. A report presented to Biggleswade Town Council emphasizes that the town should not delay in capitalizing on the significant opportunities the resort is expected to create.
The 268-hectare attraction is anticipated to bring numerous positive outcomes to the surrounding areas. Villages and towns within an 8 to 16 km radius are projected to experience immediate benefits.
Although Biggleswade lies just outside this primary zone, its geographic relevance to the theme park is acknowledged. The report highlights the need for improvements in hospitality, including increasing the current 45 available rooms in the town center. Transport links are also a focus, with suggestions for work buses to connect the resort with major employers.
The council's community development manager proposed promoting Biggleswade at the resort to showcase its strengths. The report also notes the town currently lacks a museum or tourist information service, despite an expected increase in visitor numbers. Potential funding for these development projects may come from developer contributions, private companies, or government grants.
