National Highways have begun enabling works on the a421

🚧 Early progress on Universal Studios UK 🚧

National Highways have officially begun enabling works for the Universal Studios UK project. While the current focus is on consultancy, some activity is already visible — survey crews have been spotted along the old A421 Woburn Road with temporary traffic-light management in place as data is gathered.

The enabling works contract, worth £99,197.60 + VAT, has been awarded to Ove Arup & Partners Ltd and runs from 1 August to 31 October 2025.

It may not look like much now, but these early steps are a key part of shaping what’s to come.

Description

A new high-profile scheme is now entering PCF stage 1&2 (Options) codenamed Nectarine, which are junction upgrades at A421 associated with the construction and operation of the Universal Studios theme park in Bedfordshire.
This park will be part of a larger 476-acre entertainment resort complex, which is expected to open by 2031. It is reported that the new theme park is set to generate nearly £50bn for the economy as well as creating around 28,000 jobs – 20,000 in the construction period and 8,000 working on the site when it opens to visitors.
Due to the high-profile nature of this scheme, there is a requirement is work efficiently, to streamline processes and find faster ways to deliver.