Warner Bros has completed the purchase of Leavesden Studios near Watford, Hertforshire, and confirmed that the site will be operated partly as a visitor attraction.

The US-based film giant said that it would spend £100m (US$160m, €116m) in developing the 170-acre site, which it has used to produce all eight Harry Potter films as well other hits films such as The Dark Knight and Inception.

The visitor attraction aspect of the fully-operational film production base will feature a behind-the-scenes look at the Harry Potter movie series.

By prior booking tickets, the public will be offered the ability to tour several of the original Harry Potter film sets at the studio where all eight movies were produced.

Barry Meyer, Chairman and CEO, Warner Bros. said: "Our purchase of Leavesden and our multi-million pound investment in creating a permanent UK film production base further demonstrates our long-term commitment to, and confidence in, the skills and creativity of the UK film industry.

The group has secured permission for its development plans from the Three Rivers District Council. Warner Bros. Studios, Leavesden, will open in mid 2012.