Attractions operator Merlin has announced plans to build its first ever attraction in Canada - a CA$12M (US$12m, 9.3m euro, £7.5m) Legoland Discovery Centre.
The attraction is due to open in early 2013 at Vaughan Mills, a mixed-use complex owned and operated by Ivanhoé Cambridge.
The site will provide a range of play areas including a 4D cinema; a brick pool, master classes from the LEGO Master Model Builder; LEGO-themed rides; and special party rooms for birthdays and other celebrations.
Also included will be the popular MINILAND exhibit, found in every Legoland Discovery Centre and Legoland Resort Theme Park.
According to Glenn Earlam, managing director of Merlin's Midway Attractions Operating Group, the new attraction at Vaughan Mills underlines Merlin's aggressive global growth plan - spearheaded by significant development in key cities throughout North America.
"We believe that Toronto, and particularly the City of Vaughan, which is already a popular destination for family visitors, is exactly the right location for us.
"Our experience has shown that bringing together an exciting mix of retail, dining, and quality leisure attractions like the Discovery Centre, creates a whole new element to a family shopping day, delivering significant incremental business to both the shopping centre, and to the area as a whole.
"Such projects play an important part in Merlin's future growth strategy for our 'midway' or indoor City Centre attractions."
Canada will be the 21st country in which Merlin has attractions.
The company has announced plans to open six new attractions during 2012, including four in the USA. It will also continue to invest in new experiences and improved customer service across its existing portfolio of 90 attractions.
