Homes at heart of new Universal resort demolished

Workers have begun demolishing houses that lie in the way of what will be Universal's new UK theme park in Bedfordshire.

Contractors want to raze all properties in Manor Road, Kempston Hardwick, but it is unknown how many will be knocked down before the road has to reopen on 28 November.

It marks the latest stage of a standoff between Universal and the residents, some of whom have refused to leave their homes.

The theme park developer said it remained "committed to being a good neighbour" during the project, which is being built over 476 acres (193ha) of land.

About 8.5 million people are expected to visit the £5bn Universal UK Resort each year when it opens in 2031.

However, the Manor Road houses - 12 of which are situated in the middle of the site - have proved to be a stumbling block for developers.

Graeme Coombes, a local Conservative Bedford borough councillor, said demolition was a "significant" moment.

"We're curious as to how this is going to go," he told the BBC.

"There's an overwhelmingly positive feeling about Universal, but for those people living nearby they just want to ensure that they're not going to be inconvenienced too much."

Diggers were being used to clear up large piles of rubble in Manor Road on Thursday, and HGVs were seen regularly driving along the route.

Residents in Manor Road were not subject to compulsory purchase orders, but nonetheless, they have told the BBC they felt forced to move.

Universal bypassed local planning procedures and instead got permission from the government to build the resort in December.

"What's important is for those people who are already living here and who are going to have Universal on their doorstep, that we just give some consideration so the inconvenience is kept to a minimum," Coombes said.

"But I think trying to eliminate all inconvenience would be near-on impossible."

In a letter sent to residents, Universal Destinations & Experiences said it expected to reopen Manor Road on 28 November.

"We remain committed to being a good neighbour and will continue to update our local community as our activity progresses," the company wrote.

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