Legoland New York is finally set to open in 2021, after having to delay its intended July 2020 launch due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In an updated statement, Merlin Entertainments – which will operate the park – said: "In adherence to the evolving restrictions and guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and state and local governments, we're delaying the opening of Legoland New York Resort until 2021.

"The move is consistent with the closure of venues and postponement of events worldwide.

"In this unprecedented and challenging time, nothing is more important to us than the health, safety and security of our guests. We will continue to monitor the situation in close communication with state and local authorities.

"We can’t wait to build unforgettable memories in 2021."

The attraction will feature the largest Legoland theme park ever built, spanning 150 acres and several themed lands. It will play host to more than 50 rides, shows and attractions.

One of the park's new features is a collaboration with experiential design firm Holovis and ETF Ride Systems to create a new dark ride that will transform guests into Lego Mini Figures.

Called the Lego Factory Adventure Ride, the experience will feature on-ride tracking systems – one of the world's first – that will be able to identify guests' physical attributes and map their position in virtual space, transforming them into Lego Mini Figures before their eyes.

Last month (November 2020), Merlin secured permission from local authorities to partially open the park, which is located in the outskirts of the town of Goshen, around 50 miles from New York City.

A decision by the Town of Goshen Planning Board would allow the park to operate at a limited capacity of around 1,400 visitors per day. Whether Merlin decides to open in a limited capacity has yet to be confirmed.

The news comes as Merlin also confirmed details of its eagerly-anticipated new land at Legoland Windsor in the UK.

Set to open in spring 2021, LEGO MYTHICA: World of Mythical Creatures, marks the single biggest investment in the resort, since the gates opened 25 years ago.

The parallel universe of LEGO MYTHICA will see "children’s imaginations and creativity run wild" as mythical LEGO creatures "come to life in front of their very eyes".

Created in partnership with Kid Industries, the new land has been in the works for two years and will feature a number of new attractions and experiences, including a never-before-seen UK ride.

Thomas Jellum, divisional director at Legoland Windsor Resort, said: “What better way to celebrate our 25th birthday than by unveiling a unique experience like nothing else we have launched at the Resort since we opened.

"At the heart of LEGO MYTHICA: World of Mythical Creatures will be epic rides, including a UK first, and breath-taking mythical creatures designed to capture children’s imaginations and inspire them to build and play."