There’s been a real buzz about Luton lately! The past few months have brought exciting announcements and developments, with more to come. There’s so much to look forward to in our town – and we couldn’t be more chuffed about where we’re heading.
Power Court stadium breaking ground this summer
At long last, Hatters fans! Construction on our beloved Luton Town FC’s new home kicks off this summer. The impressive 25,000-seater stadium at Power Court will host its first match in the 2028/29 season.
The same team who revamped Barcelona’s Camp Nou will be leading this game-changing project right in our town centre, bringing new homes, a hotel, and even a new music venue. Plus, all the character of Kenilworth Road with proper facilities? Yes please!
Universal Studios puts us on the map
Pinch yourself – it’s actually happening! Universal Studios is building their first European theme park just up the road in Bedford, opening in 2031. This is massive for Luton, with the attraction expected to pump £50 billion into the economy by 2055. We’re bound to reap the rewards!
The real win for Lutonians? Jobs, jobs, jobs – nearly 20,000 during construction and 8,000 permanent positions once open.
And how exciting to have an epic theme park right on our doorstep! No more saving for Florida – world-class rides and attractions just a short drive away. Suddenly, “I’m from Luton” will have people asking you for Universal tickets!
Luton Airport cleared for take-off
If that’s not enough, our airport just got the green light to double passenger numbers to 32 million by 2043, with a shiny new terminal on the way. For us locals, this means more jobs, better connections, and a serious boost to our town’s economy.
Together with Universal Studios, we’re looking at a tourism powerhouse that puts Luton firmly on the international map. Not bad for a town that doesn’t always get the credit it deserves, eh?
Town centre is on the up
Spotted the eye-catching new mural on the old ABC Cinema yet? Or the artwork on Guildford Street revealing our hidden River Lea running right under our feet? These creative touches are adding character to streets we walk every day and are a welcome bit of a colour into the town. And that’s just the start. With ‘Power Court’ and ‘The Stage’ developments in the pipeline too, there’s so much changing for the better.
And let’s not forget, Luton Point shopping centre has been buzzing with new arrivals. Ask for big retailers and you shall receive! Sports Direct has officially opened, bringing USC, GAME, Evans Cycles, and Jack Wills under one roof in the old Debenhams store. Miniso has even joined the town centre club, joining new favourites like Choice, and even Black Sheep Coffee has opened its doors at long last!
With all this momentum, our already vibrant town is reaching new heights. Luton’s always had heart and character – now we’re adding even more reasons to be proud to call this place home. The best part? There’s still more to come in Luton’s exciting journey.
About the Author
Laura Redmond
Laura is a passionate supporter of the Step Forward Luton campaign and a Marketing Manager. Armed with a journalism degree and unwavering love for her university town, she believes there's more to Luton that meets the eye. She loves to lace up her walking shoes to explore the town's green spaces or unearthing Luton's hidden foodie gems.
