Universal promise to keep the noise down for neighbours in Bedford
Universal has shared new information about how its planned theme park near Bedford will run - including plans to limit noise for neighbours
Universal Destinations & Experiences has revealed new details about its planned resort near Bedford, including extended opening hours for special events and strict rules to manage noise levels.
The documents show the theme park’s main area – known as the Core Zone – will usually open daily from 7am to 11pm, including on public holidays.
Special events such as Halloween Horror Nights could see the park stay open until 2am on up to 60 nights each year. For other major celebrations like Chinese New Year, Diwali, Bonfire Night, Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the park may close at 1am for up to five nights annually. Private events could also run until 1am up to 30 times a year.
A spokesperson for Universal said, “Outdoor amplified music will typically end by 11pm, but during approved events may continue until 12.30am.”
The company has also committed to a detailed noise control plan, with specific maximum levels set for ride noise, shows, parades, and even visitor reactions such as screams.
These levels will be measured at points known as Receptor Control Locations, which represent nearby residential areas. The proposed limits are:
60 dB LAeq,1hour between 7am and 11pm
55 dB LAeq,15minutes between 11pm and 7am
A lower night-time limit of 50 dB LAeq,15minutes for Wixams and Stewartby, due to lower background noise levels
“These standards match noise management used at other Universal parks around the world,” the spokesperson added.
To stay within the limits, Universal says it will use a mix of strategies, including:
Predictive noise checks for major attractions and events
Using buildings to block sound
Designing roller coasters to send noise inward
A 120-day sound monitoring programme after opening
A dedicated noise complaints line
Regular updates to residents about louder-than-normal events
The company has not yet announced a name for the resort or confirmed which themed attractions will be included.
Application for Special Development Order
The government has confirmed it is considering using a Special Development Order (SDO) to approve Universal’s planned entertainment resort at Kempston Hardwick, near Bedford.
This type of order allows major projects to get planning permission directly from the government, rather than going through the usual local council process.
The public can now give their views on these documents. The consultation runs from 12pm on 3 July 2025 until 12pm on 31 August 2025. Comments sent after that date may not be considered.
The government is asking people to send in their responses using its online consultation website, Citizen Space.