Shanghai Disneyland is set to undergo its second major expansion since opening in 2016 with the announcement that a Zootopia-themed land will be added to the site.

Construction is scheduled to start later this year for the project, which will be the eighth themed land at the park.

Last week's announcement comes less than a year after the opening of the Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land in April, 2018.

It is welcome news for Disney's joint venture partner for Shanghai Disney Resort, Shanghai Shendi Group.

Chairman Yang Jinsong said the expansion demonstrated Disney's confidence and commitment in the Chinese market.

“Since the resort’s Grand Opening in 2016, Shanghai Disneyland has gone from strength to strength - continuing to expand and enjoying ever-rising attendance rates while also providing a safe and enjoyable experience for our guests,” he said.

“Shanghai Disneyland has rapidly become one of the fastest growing Disney parks and has been key to the development of the Shanghai International Resort as one of the most visited leisure destinations in the country. 

"This new expansion will provide our guests with an even richer selection of offerings, and will further boost our market competitiveness."

More than 1200 cast members are already employed at the resort, with the park proving to be driver for local industries across the construction, design and tourism sectors.

Zootopia land will be unique to Shanghai Disneyland and comes off the success of the movie, which broke box office records to become China's highest grossing animated film of all time.

The proposed site includes a feature attraction, as well as entertainment, merchandise, and food and beverage offerings. 

Walt Disney Chairman of Parks, Experiences and Consumer Product, Bob Chapek, said the company was "thrilled" to announce the development.

Source: Disney

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