Mon, 11 Aug 2025

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 Universal theme park sparks 'fear of losing homes'

A charity warns private rents could rise as thousands of workers move in to build the attraction.
A new Universal theme park set to be built in Bedford, UK has raised concerns among local residents and charities that it could lead to a surge in property prices and rents, forcing people out of their homes. The construction of the park is expected to create 28,000 jobs and attract 8.5 million visitors per year, but Generation Rent warned that it would put pressure on the local housing market. The average private rent in Bedford was already £1,125 per month as of June 2025, a 8.7% increase from the previous year. Nye Jones from Generation Rent said that with the park's construction and increased property prices, landlords may try to take advantage of the situation and force renters out. Some residents are also concerned about the impact on the community, with one homeowner, David Burns, saying that while he sees opportunities for renting out his home, it could lead to a loss of character in the area. The charity is calling on the government to limit rent rises and introduce quotas for short-term lets and holiday rentals. The Ministry of Housing has announced plans to give tenants stronger powers to challenge excessive rent hikes, but Generation Rent believes more needs to be done to protect renters.
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