Officials at the Danish city of Billund have appointed a team to draw up a feasibility study into establishing the city as the 'world's foremost centre of knowledge for children'.

The city was named as the world's Capital for Children in December 2009 and is now looking to build on the accolade to attract tourism and to reinvigorate the city.

Among the projects planned for the city are a new entertainment and tourist attraction, a new cinema, hotel, an international research centre and a 600,000sq ft-retail park.

The Billund Municipality has appointed architects Årstiderne Arkitekter and Gehl Architects Oxfordshire as well as UK-based consultancy MindFolio to conduct the feasibility study.

Billund's mayor, Ib Kristensen, said: "The realisation of this vision will establish Billund on the global map, and combine its existing strengths with the demands and benefits that future generations will value.

"It is very ambitious, and certainly unique, but the plans are also built upon realistic foundations that can be developed over a number of years."

Billund's existing attractions include the first ever Legoland and a waterpark. The city is also the home of the Lego headquarters.

IMAGE: Gehl Architects