Bond and Paddington could star at Universal park

by Abigail
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A source close to the Universal UK project has told the BBC what fans can expect from the new park being built in Bedford.

James Bond, Paddington and Lord of the Rings are among the brands set to appear at the park, the BBC has learned.

Rides and attractions related to Harry Potter are not expected to be included.

On its website, Universal Destinations has claimed "it is too early" to know what attractions will be at the park.

Construction on the site at Kempston Hardwick, Bedfordshire, is expected to start next year if planning permission is granted.

While the source is confident that these concepts are happening, the theme park is not expected to open until 2031, which means some plans could change.

The attractions

Universal Destinations & Experiences/Comcast
Buildings reminiscent of Jurassic Park can be seen in the concept art shared by Universal

Universal aims to provide distinct attractions at each of its parks, with the Bedfordshire one set to feature unique attractions not found elsewhere.

The BBC has been told that other themed zones and rides at the park will be inspired by Back to the Future, Jurassic Park and Minions.

The source insisted "contracts have been signed" and it would be unlikely things would change.

"At this point it will be little details they tweak, like 'Let's use a different shade of paint on that Lord of the Rings castle'," they said.

The locations can be seen on the map of what the site could look like, although specific details, such as the Hill Valley clock from Back to the Future, have been obscured.

Rides have already been designed, with the majority planned as indoor attractions.

Rollercoasters based on Back to the Future, Jurassic Park and Minions are among the few rides that will not be under cover.

There will be a stunt show based on 007, similar to the The Bourne Stuntacular in Florida.

"If you look at Epic Universe, the newest park they're opening in Florida, a lot of those rides are indoors, too," the source said.

Universal Destinations & Experiences/Comcast
A James Bond stunt show will be one of the rides for visitors to experience at the Universal UK attraction

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy told BBC Breakfast the theme park would be an opportunity to show off "great British creations to the world".

"These are things like James Bond, Paddington Bear, these are things like Harry Potter. We've got so much to be proud of," she said.

Notably, a Harry Potter-themed area will not be part of the park, as it is situated just a 40-minute drive from the Warner Bros Studio Tour in Leavesden, Hertfordshire.

Attractions based on JK Rowling's characters and settings are a popular feature of other Universal resorts.

Drone video shows Universal theme park site

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