The Walt Disney Company has unveiled a multi-year expansion plan for the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, US, including a new Cars Land based on the animated film.

As well as the 12-acre Cars Land – featuring the world of Radiator Springs and three new attractions – the planned expansion will see a number of new entertainment and family-oriented attractions introduced to Disney’s California Adventure – including the interactive Walt Disney Story, about the company’s founder; a Little Mermaid attraction; and a 9,000 capacity viewing area for night-time events.

“The success of the Disneyland Resort [which includes the Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks] over the past few years provides us with both the opportunity and the need to invest for growth, to enhance and expand the experience for our guests and attract new visitors, while at the same time delivering attractive returns on the investment,” said Disney president and chief executive officer Bob Iger.

“This plan is a reflection of our belief in the bright future of the Disneyland Resort and our continuing commitment to grow the Anaheim Resort Area as a world class tourist destination.”

Disney Parks and Resorts chairman Jay Rasulo added: “Our Disneyland Guests have a deep emotional connection with Walt Disney, whose life story really captures the pioneering spirit of California in the 1920s.

“The creative evolution of Disney’s California Adventure will connect guests to Walt’s own California adventure and reflect the place that he found when he first arrived with a cardboard suitcase in his hand and a head full of dreams.”

The announcement follows recent news that the company is planning a 250-room expansion of its Grand Californian Hotel & Spa – including 50 rooms dedicated to the West Coast debut of its timeshare business, Disney Vacation Club.

Disney has also finalised plans to purchase 21 acres of oceanfront property on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, on which it is to build its first mixed-use family resort outside of its theme park developments. Scheduled to open in 2011, the property will boast more than 800 units including hotel rooms and further timeshare villas for the Disney Vacation Club.

"This resort hotel will give our guests another way to visit an exciting part of the world with a brand they trust," said Rasulo.

"Hawaii has been among our most requested Disney Vacation Club getaway locations beyond our theme parks. We are looking forward to building a special family resort that honors the cultural diversity of Hawaii and reflects the spirit of aloha that makes this location so unique." Details: http://corporate.disney.go.com