April 2, 2025 marks an exciting chapter in the evolution of New Epping as we celebrated the groundbreaking ceremony for the newest addition to our growing precinct— Punthill Epping apartment hotel. Development Director, David Lee, joined Veriu Group’s Director of Operations, Kyle Kaya, to turn the first sod on what will be a premium accommodation offering in Melbourne’s New Urban North.
The partnership between Riverlee and Veriu Group will bring 100 serviced apartments to New Epping, scheduled to open in mid-2026. This collaboration represents a significant milestone in the $2 billion regeneration project that is transforming a 51-hectare site into a vibrant, amenity-rich community.
“Our collaboration with Veriu Group is an exciting step forward in the evolution of the New Epping precinct and its expanding healthcare and commercial infrastructure,” said David Lee at today’s ceremony. “Introducing trusted accommodation and a vibrant dining experience for visitors, all just a short walk from key amenities, will support more visitors and professionals to evolve the precinct and foster economic prosperity across the region.”
Punthill Epping will enjoy a prime position along Cooper Street, in the heart of our Greengate Work Precinct. Its strategic location places it near the newly built Northern Private Hospital and adjacent to Northern Hospital Epping, Pacific Epping Shopping Centre, and the relocated Melbourne Markets.
This positioning aligns with the City of Whittlesea’s Epping Central Structure Plan and our vision to develop New Epping into a key medical and commercial hub of Melbourne’s north.
The 100-key apartment hotel will feature a striking façade and podium, with vertical green elements incorporated throughout the design to complement the surrounding landscape. Guests will enjoy scenic views of Edgars Creek Corridor and 12 hectares of regenerated natural wetlands, framed by bike paths, walking trails, and a 2.7km nature loop.
Punthill Epping will include a mix of fully self-contained modern studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, conference and meeting facilities, secure on-site parking, a gym, a first-floor terrace with panoramic views and plans to include a destination restaurant.
In keeping with New Epping’s 6 Star Green Star accreditation as a sustainably developed community, the Punthill property will feature:
– An electric-only building design & high-efficiency solar PV system
– Efficient variable refrigerant flow air conditioning
– Advanced glazing systems & passive shading devices
– Smart building technologies for optimal energy efficiency
New Epping continues to evolve with health and commercial businesses, homes and community spaces, and the addition of Punthill Epping addresses the growing need for premium short and medium-stay self-contained accommodation in this expanding market.
The groundbreaking of Punthill Epping represents another significant step in realizing our vision for New Epping as Melbourne’s New Urban North. Riverlee remains committed to delivering visionary projects that lead the industry both creatively and commercially while honouring the region’s heritage, environment, and community.
We look forward to welcoming Punthill Epping to New Epping in 2026.
