ORLANDO, Fla., May 31 (UPI) -- A Harry Potter theme park will be coming to Universal Studios in Orlando, Fla., with the blessing of Harry's creator, J.K. Rowling.
Ground is expected to be broken on "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" this year and the attraction is scheduled to be opened by late 2009, the Orlando (Fla.) Sentinel reported Thursday.
"We think this is the most exciting news we've ever had out here," said Universal Orlando Resort President Bill Davis. "We think it is going to have a huge impact on all our constituencies: our guests, our team members, our management team, everybody. This is absolutely huge. We're just thrilled and excited we were selected for the 'Wizarding World of Harry Potter.' "
The themed area will include rides, shops and restaurants based on the adventures of Potter as he learns about wizardry at Hogwarts School of Wizardry and Witchcraft.
Rowling said in a statement, "The plans I've seen look incredibly exciting and I don't think fans of the books or films will be disappointed."
Not disclosed were terms of the contract among Universal, Rowling and Warner Bros. Studios, which makes the Harry Potter movies.
