Last Resident Refuses to Leave Home Amid Universal Theme Park Development

Ritchie Wood, 55, is the last resident on Manor Road in Kempston Hardwick, near Bedford, as he refuses to vacate his home for the construction of a new Universal theme park set to open in 2031. The 480-acre park will require the demolition of all 12 homes on the street, with six already vacated and five sold under non-disclosure agreements. Wood claims that Universal has pressured his neighbors to sell their properties. He has received an eviction notice and is currently awaiting bailiffs after a court granted a possession order earlier this month. Wood has expressed difficulty in finding alternative housing and has been advised by his council to remain in his home to avoid being classified as voluntarily homeless. He has lived in his three-bedroom cottage for 11 years and cares for his elderly parents nearby. The theme park, which is expected to create 20,000 jobs and attract 8.5 million visitors in its first year, has been described by the government as a source of long-term prosperity for Britain. However, Wood has voiced concerns about the impact on the community and the environment, noting that wildlife has been displaced due to the development. Universal Studios has not yet responded to requests for comment.