The Olympic Park Legacy Company (OPLC) has announced the launch of a fresh bidding process to secure a long-term, multi-purpose future for London's Olympic Stadium.

West Ham United Football Club (WHUFC), together with Newham Council, had originally been selected as the preferred bidder for the venue, before the deal collapsed in October.

Interested parties are now being invited to come forward with plans for a range of "sporting, cultural and commercial events" for the Olympic Stadium when it reopens in 2014.

The stadium, which is to become the new national stadium for athletics and has been selected to host the 2017 World Athletics Championships, will be retained as a public asset.

Newham Council has offered up to £40m worth of investment towards the cost of converting the venue after the 2012 Games, with interested parties required to register by 30 January.

Final bids will be due back in March 2012, with the OPLC planning to appoint a winning bid in May 2012 following consultation with the government and the mayor of London.

OPLC chief executive Andrew Altman said: "Having already secured the 2017 World Athletics Championships, now is the time for bidders to come forward to further enhance the stadium's legacy."

Hugh Robertson, minister for sport and the Olympics, added: "The Olympic Stadium is an iconic venue and I am sure that it will attract interesting and exciting bids for its future use."

Details: www.legacycompany.co.uk

Image: David Poultney/LOCOG