Univeral's theme park announcement has been branded a "distraction" amid an ongoing global trade war. The UK Governement confirmed a huge theme park will be built in Bedford, and it's expected to bring £50billion to the economy.

Rebecca Harding, of the centre for economic security, said on ITV News: "The world economy is on the brink of something very dangerous. The Government has to be very careful to not be looking at something that almost seems trivial. Here's a theme park, here's a distraction." The attraction would open in 2031 on the site of the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks near Bedford, creating an estimated 28,000 jobs.

Universal estimated the 476-acre complex could attract 8.5 million visitors in its first year.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said it would "see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage".

Universal Destinations and Experience said 80% of those employed in the new jobs would be from Bedfordshire and surrounding areas.