The Russia government has given the go-ahead for the development of an unprecedented $4bn theme park between Moscow and Kaluga.  Following a recent meeting with Kaluga regional governor Anatoly Artamonova, the new project, The Magic World of Russia, has received an official endorsement from Russian President, Vladimir Putin.  The Magic World of Russia, which is being developed by Moschanko Investment Group and Hollywood-based Goddard Group, had been pitched as a “major destination resort and theme park that will reflect Russian and other international cultures, at a level of quality that is equal to the best theme parks in the world today”.  According to Governor Artamonov, the new park will become a place for family recreation with a highway, a railway and an airport located in the vicinity.  It will feature several sections, including interactive, educational programmes for children and numerous hotels.  The enormous, 220ha amusement resort will also include the world’s biggest aquapark, Moschanko and Gaddard said in a joint statement this week.  Initial plans for the Magical World of Russia were first announced in 2012, but had, at that time, a different theme and a lower projected cost of approximately $260m.  “I am happy to see my long-held dream of creating a true theme park and resort for Russia finally becoming a reality,”said Gene Moshkovich, founder of Moschanko Investment Group and the leader of the consortium tasked with developing and managing the project.”  Moshkovich added: “From the moment I had my first idea for this park and resort, I never doubted it would be realized.  But I also knew I needed the best people in the themed-entertainment and design industry.  For this reason, I partnered with Garry Goddard and his Goddard Group.  He and his team are helping me shape my vision for this wonderful new family destination.”