London seeking developers for Old Victoria Hospital site

The Old Victoria Hospital site is seen in the SoHo neighbourhood of London, Ont. on Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2014. (Bryan Bicknell / CTV London)

The City of London is looking for companies interested in developing the Old Victoria Hospital site in the the SoHo area.

John Fleming, London's chief city planner, said in a statement, "There's been a lot of excitement about the prospect of developing these lands as we've prepared for this moment over the past couple of years. [It] represents a once-in-a-generation development opportunity."

A Request for Expressions of Interest (REOI) was issued Wedneday for companies interested in the five hectares of land north of the Thames River's south branch, east of Wellington Street.

The city is looking for experienced firms and joint ventures who are prepared to submit their vision for - and qualifications to develop - the land.

After submissions are received, shortlisted applicants must supply detailed concepts and plans that, according to Fleming, will set the vision for the neighbourhod and tie together existing features along the Thames River.

"There are opportunities for the development of new mid-rise and high-rise residential buildings, mixed use development in the heart of the neighbourhood and re-purposed heritage buildings that can establish a unique neighbourhood character."

Submissions are due by Dec. 18, 2014 and the city is hoping construction at the site could begin in 2016/17.

The REOI can be viewed on the CBRE Limited website.