Proposals for a new multi-million pound cultural visitor destination - Visions of China - in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, have been unveiled by the partnership leading the scheme.

It follows a decision by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council (RMBC) to name China Vision Ltd and MCD Developments as its preferred developer for the Pithouse West site. The £100m+ project is being headed by China Vision chair Dr Lee Kaihung and joint CEOs Peter Moore and Steven Byrne of MCD Developments.

Speaking to Leisure Opportunities, Moore said that the 120-acre (49-hectare) cultural theme park would bring the "finest faces" of China to a UK and western audience. Experiences on offer at Visions of China will see visitors enter through the Great Wall onto a Chinese-inspired street offering retail; food and beverage; and information outlets.

An oriental spa and centre of wellbeing will provide treatments such as acupunctures; holistic therapies; and meditation alongside "more recognised" spa treatments. The spa and a restaurant and tea bar will be located amid 15-20 acres (6-8 hectares) of water gardens constructed by "eminent Chinese landscapers" and inspired by the city of Suzhou.

Elsewhere, a children's fantasy land inspired by Chinese myths and legends; a 200-bedroom Oriental Hotel; and a Chinese theatre will also feature as part of the development. Other experiences earmarked include a temple complex influenced by Shaolin philosophies; Taoism; and Confucianism, with a cultural centre drawing on specific elements of Chinese culture.

Moore said: "We will continue to have strong relationships with Chinese architects and landscape designers to ensure the authenticity of the project. "China is a now a major superpower and looking to extend its influence outwards. This is the perfect opportunity to showcase the selected facet's of one of the world's greatest communities."

Moore added that "modest targets" of 1.4-1.5 million visitors would be expected per year, with funding for the scheme to come through a range of UK and Chinese sources. Last month, it was announced by the board of Sheffield City Region Local Enterprise Partnership that it was "keen" to support the Visions of China bid for Regional Growth Fund support.