Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if she will make an assessment of the adequacy of the planning system in Bedfordshire to manage planning applications for (a) accommodation, (b) hospitality and leisure and (c) other development types resulting from the proposed Universal theme park in Bedfordshire.

On 9 April 2025, the Prime Minister announced that a multi-billion-pound investment in a major new Universal theme park and resort in Bedford had been agreed between Universal Studios, the UK Government, and Bedford Borough Council.

The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government has agreed, in principle, to consider any proposal.

Given the proposals remain subject to a planning decision, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government Ministers cannot comment on any proposal, as to do so could prejudice the position of the Deputy Prime Minister.

Should the Department receive such a request, it will carry out a proper and impartial consideration of the planning merits of the proposed development.