The City of Whittlesea, located in Melbourne’s northeast, is set to see major benefits from the development of Riverlee’s New Epping project, which was recently approved by the city. The $2 billion mixed-use community will provide healthcare (inc aged care), housing, employment, and commercial infrastructure to the 51-hectare site. According to reports, the project is expected to generate over 7,200 jobs and contribute more than $3.4 billion to the local economy.
The health and wellness precinct, which will be situated next to the Northern Hospital, will create an additional 646 jobs in allied health. The Northern Private Hospital, currently under construction, will also bring in 726 jobs once operational. The New Epping project also includes 110,000 sqm of commercial space and a diverse community of 2,000 homes, connected by a civic heart complete with parks, cafes, and recreation facilities.
Riverlee development director David Lee said that the project aims to set a new standard in urban renewal with a focus on diversity and a more thoughtful approach to regenerating infill sites. New Epping’s vision for a greener future will feature a central green spine and waterway rehabilitation, with built spaces targeting Net Zero in operation.
City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson praised Riverlee’s vision to transform the dormant site, saying it will provide significant benefits to the growing northern corridor and its community. With a focus on walkable neighbourhoods, the New Epping project is expected to cement Epping as the CBD of Melbourne’s north and redefine the suburbs of the future. The first stage of New Epping was fast-tracked by the Victorian Government’s Building Victoria’s Recovery Taskforce in December 2020, and further permits are expected to be lodged in the coming year.
