ESP and Veolia to build water and energy facilities on 476-acre site near Bedford
The company behind plans for Universal Studios UK has appointed two contractors to build infrastructure facilities at the theme park ahead of construction getting underway this year.
UK-based Veolia will design and build a major new water treatment facility aiming to reduce the pressure which the theme park - set to be Europe’s largest - could put on nearby Bedford’s water infrastructure.
The facility, which will recycle and reuse water including rainwater runoff, will be operated by UK facilities management firm ESP Utilities Group.
The two firms will also design and build a new all-electric energy plant which will provide low-carbon heating and cooling to the resort
Other infrastructure upgrades on the site will include a new electricity substation and one of the UK’s largest electric vehicle charging facilities, both of which will be delivered and operated by ESP.
Gidon Freeman, Universal Destinations & Experiences vice president of external affairs, said the US-based company “will be ensuring the resort can be built and operated sustainably”.
Kevin O’Connor, chief executive officer, ESP Utilities Group, added: “The ESP collaboration with Universal Destinations & Experiences strengthens our position at the forefront of sustainable infrastructure.
“With the support of our partners in Veolia, we are immensely proud to be able to deliver a pioneering water, power and energy strategy for the Entertainment Resort Complex and surrounding areas.”
The UK government approved plans for the 476-acre theme park in December.
UK-based consultants currently involved in the project include WSP, which is working on multiple roles including transport, sustainability and utilities.
London planning consultant DWD is working on planning while public engagement is being led by LCA, formerly London Communications Agency.
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