The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is expected to open in Orlando in late 2009, as a joint venture between Warner Bros Entertainment — producers of the Harry Potter films — and Universal Orlando Resort.

"The plans I've seen look incredibly exciting, and I don't think fans of the books or films will be disappointed," she said, according to a statement received in London.

The park will include rides and attractions featuring the key locations and figures from the best-selling books, including Hogwarts school and the village of Hogsmeade.

The Times newspaper reported that the project could cost an estimated $1-billion.

Warner Bros boss Barry Meyer said: "Over the years we've received thousands of letters from fans around the world wishing they could visit Hogwarts and the wonderful locations described in each of J.K Rowling's beloved stories."

Production designer Stuart Craig, who worked on the blockbuster Potter films and who is helping the theme park project, said visitors would not be disappointed.

"Our primary goal is to make sure this experience is an authentic extension of Harry Potter's world as it is portrayed in the books and films," he said.

The seventh and last Potter book, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" is to be published in July, capping a series that has sold 325 million copies worldwide and has been translated into 64 languages.

The books have made Rowling an estimated $1-billion richer. The first volume appeared in 1997.

Those involved in the printing of the new book have been asked to keep its plot a watertight secret until July 21, when the English version makes its debut.

AFP