Merlin Entertainments Group has made multi-million dollar a takeover offer of for Living and Leisure Australia Group, the owner and operator of nine leading visitor attractions in the Asia-Pacific region.

The offer of 5.14 cents per share values LLA at approximately A$140m (US$141.5m) on an equity basis and implies an enterprise value of A$244m (US$246.5).

LLA's board of directors have  unanimously  recommend  the  offer,  in  the  absence  of  a  superior proposal, and subject to an Independent Expert opining that the Offer is fair and  reasonable

Merlin said the takeover offers an "excellent opportunity" for the group to increase its network of world-class international attractions in Asia and Australia, successfully building on the acquisition of the Sydney Attractions Group earlier this year.

"This is a unique opportunity for Merlin to acquire not just a group of high quality attractions which complement our existing portfolio of iconic global attraction brands, but which also increases our interests and exposure to Asia and Australia," said chief executive, Nick Varney.

"Completion of this deal, together with our existing ongoing development, would represent an important step in our growth strategy for the region which we believe is full of opportunities and prospects for those with the right attractions and expertise."