Puy du Fou submits £600m Oxfordshire theme park plans

Puy du Fou, a French company known for its award-winning history-themed parks in France and Spain, has submitted a £600 million planning application to build a new history-based attraction near Bicester, Oxfordshire. The proposed park will feature four period villages, 13 live shows, three hotels themed to different eras of British history, a conference center, and extensive landscaping including new woodlands and wildflower meadows. The park is expected to open in phases starting in 2029 and aims to attract 1.47 million visitors annually, creating approximately 2,000 direct jobs and supporting an additional 6,000 roles in the local economy. The development is projected to contribute £500 million annually to the regional economy and emphasizes environmental sustainability by planting 20,000 trees and creating a 50-acre forest area. CEO Olivier Strebelle highlighted the extensive consultation process with local stakeholders and expressed enthusiasm for bringing British history to life through immersive experiences. While some local opposition exists, the project awaits final approval from Cherwell District Council.