By Emily Parker

Copyright manchestereveningnews

Lego has announced plans to buy 29 entertainment venues from theme park giant Merlin as part of a £200 million purchase. The Danish toy brand announced it would buy the Lego and Legoland branded discovery centres from Merlin Entertainments, who also own venues such as Alton Towers , Madame Tussauds and the Peppa Pig theme parks. The company revealed the deal was part of a strategy to take more control of sites which are linked to its brand. Sites are spread across nine countries. The deal impacts two UK locations – the Manchester Legoland Discovery Centre, which is located next to the Trafford Centre, and the Legoland site in Birmingham. The deal will not include Legoland Resorts, such as Legoland in Windsor, which will continue to be operated by Merlin under licence, and it is expected to close around the end of the year. For the best ideas on days out, shopping and parenting issues, get the Manchester Family newsletter here Lego Group chief executive Niels B Christiansen said: “We are excited to welcome the discovery centres to the Lego Group and appreciate all that Merlin Entertainments has done to bring the Lego brand to life through these attractions. “They will be an important addition to our global network of retail stores and allow us to offer fans of all ages even more memorable hands-on brand and shopping experiences. “We are looking forward to welcoming the dedicated discovery centre teams who inspire visitors bring to life their imagination and creativity through the power of Lego Play.” Fiona Eastwood, chief executive of Merlin Entertainments, said: “For 20 years, Merlin has partnered with the Lego Group to bring its beloved brand to life through experiential play, including in the discovery centres. “It is now a natural next step for the centres to become part of the Lego Group, allowing Merlin to strengthen its focus on driving the growth and success of Legoland Resorts alongside our other attractions worldwide. “Together with the Lego Group, we look forward to the opportunities ahead as we build on our shared commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for families across the globe.” Join our Family WhatsApp group HERE