Merlin Entertainments are set to bring stiff competition to the world famous Disney Parks in Orlando Florida. The LEGOLAND owners secured a 145 acre site, currently hosting Cypress Gardens attraction at Winter Haven.

The plan is to build the largest LEGOLAND in the world which will be situated approximately 30 minutes away from Disney World.

Celebrating its tenth birthday last year, LEGOLAND already have an established presence in the US in California. Voted as the best theme park for children by Amusement Today, it is the fastest growing theme park attraction, with visitor numbers growing annually.

In a press statement from Merlin Entertainments, Chief Executive Nick Varney said, “LEGOLAND California has already proven how much US families lobe the unique LEGOLAND concept. Now we are bringing that fun and experience to a much wider audience.

LEGOLAND Florida is predicted to open in early 2011.