Huge boost for new £600m UK theme park with four ‘villages’ and three hotels
PROPOSALS for a new £600million UK theme park have been backed by the British Tourist Authority (BTA).
The Government-funded tourist authority is supporting the plans for the historical park, which will offer live shows and reenactments.
French firm Puy du Fou submitted plans to build a site north of Bicester near the M40.
In the supporting letter, BTA director Andrew Stokes, praised the ride-free park’s established track record in France and Spain, saying it offers a “truly distinctive visitor experience through its historic theme park concept”.
He also commended the park’s collaborative approach in working with Experience Oxfordshire to create a fully authentic experience.
BTA said it “can see the potential for this project to generate significant interest and excitement among domestic and international visitors alike”.
Stokes added that the plans “demonstrate confidence in the UK as a destination, in our leisure sector, and in the long-term strength of the visitor economy”.
The site will include four period villages with 13 live shows and have also been backed by Experience Oxfordshire.
Support chief executive Hayley Beer-Gamage said: “The decision by Puy du Fou to invest in Oxfordshire, and specifically within the Cherwell district, is a strong endorsement of the area as a globally recognised destination.
“This investment will drive job creation, stimulate economic growth, and increase visitor spend across both the district and the wider county.”
According to the park operator, the site will directly employ around 2,000 people, while supporting a further 6,000 jobs in hotels, restaurants, suppliers, and other local businesses.
Puy du Fou also said it will deliver a £500million annual boost to the local and regional economy.
In a report published earlier this year, BTA broke down the long-term economic benefits for Oxfordshire and the Cherwell district.
“Tourism has a significantly positive regional economic impact across the UK”, Stokes said.
“Relevant to Oxfordshire and Cherwell, the South East region is the second largest recipient, accounting for £17 billion of economic activity in 2024.”
Puy du Fou first opened in 1978, and is rated the second best attraction in France behind Disneyland Paris.