The announcement was made by the London Development Agency (LDA) and Newham Council, which have requested that proposals be submitted by March 2012. A chosen developer will be announced next September.
The shortlisted developers have been asked to come up with outline proposals for the site that "match the LDA and Newham's world class ambitions for the site", said a statement from Drivers Jonas Deloitte, marketing managers for the project. A final shortlist of developers will then be asked to come up with detailed proposals for the site.
The Royal Albert Dock was awarded enterprise zone status in March, meaning it will benefit from business rates exemptions and a more streamlined planning process. Enterprise Zones are designed to accelerate business, development and infrastructure momentum across the Royal Docks.
"This high level of market interest is part of the growing international confidence in the future of the Royal Docks as a whole," said Laurene Joseph, chief executive of the LDA. "We now look forward to seeing the short-listed developers come up with proposals to turn the site into a world class centre - a place with thriving businesses and high quality jobs."
The site is cleared with the exception of two Grade II listed buildings, the Central Buffet and the former Dock Managers Office. Plans are expected to include a mix of uses including business, education, leisure and tourism and supporting uses.
The shortlisted developers for the scheme include Canary Wharf, Dauphin (ABP) / Stanhope, Micro World, MUSE, St Modwen, Salmon Harvester, SinoWest / Mace and Wrenbridge.
