Plans have been announced for an expansion of the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, US, over the coming months.

Due for completion in early 2012, the project will include the addition of four multi-purpose playing fields on the north side of the venue for football, soccer, lacrosse and field hockey.

The scheme will take the total number of pitches at the complex to more than 30, with digital video boards; lighting and scoreboards; and audio systems to be installed.

Lighting will also be added to five existing pitches in order to increase potential playing time. The expansion will increase the footprint of the venue to more than 270 acres (109 hectares).

Disney Sports Enterprises and Downtown Disney senior vice president Ken Potrock said: "The demand and popularity of youth sports continues to grow even amid the current economy.

"We will continue to explore additional ways that we can provide more youth athletes with opportunities to be active and compete in a unique sports atmosphere."