HONG KONG, March 5 (Xinhua) -- Hong Kong's first children's hospital is expected to open later this year as a key part of the region's public paediatric network, the new hospital's chief executive said Monday.

Hong Kong Children's Hospital (HKCH), whose construction started in 2013 and was completed in 2017, is now recruiting doctors and nurses and is expected to commence operation by phases in the fourth season of 2018, HKCH Chief Executive Lee Tsz-Leung said.

HKCH will be the first children's hospital in Hong Kong's public healthcare system, mainly focusing on tertiary services and providing quality specialty care for the referrals of complex and rare paediatric cases, according to Lee.

The new hospital, located at the Kai Tak Development Area in Kowloon and comprising two 11-storeyed buildings, will provide health-care services in areas including paediatric oncology, cardiology, nephrology, surgical and intensive care, as well as radiology, pathology and anaesthesia services.

It will also build up manpower and expertise and enhance research on pediatric and genetic diseases.

HKCH, described by Lee as a "child-centered, family-friendly" hospital, includes colorful indoor decoration and facilities designed for children and families.

A dozen members of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Legislative Council visited the new hospital on Monday and showed appreciation for its designs and facilities.