Universal's upcoming theme park in the UK, planned to open in 2031

Universal's upcoming theme park in the UK, planned to open in 2031, could potentially feature Europe's tallest rides.

The company has applied for a special development order (SDO) that would allow structures up to 377ft (115m) in height, which would accommodate taller rides to compete with other European attractions. This is significantly higher than the current UK tallest ride, Hyperia at Thorpe Park, which stands at 236ft (72m), and the European tallest ride, Red Force at PortAventura World in Spain, which is 367ft (112m). The new park is expected to draw 8.5 million visitors annually, with a peak of 55,000 visitors per day. It will be situated in Bedford and will include parking for 7,000 cars, a transport hub for public transport, and a new junction on the A421. The park's central location and transport links were crucial factors in its selection. The development also aims to create 8,500 local jobs by 2031, with that number increasing to 10,000 by 2051.

BBC NEWS