SYDNEY and MCLEAN, VA – Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today announced the signing of Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street, adding to Hilton Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio of 106 world-class properties in the Asia Pacific region. Under a management agreement with M&L Hospitality, Hilton will manage the 244-room new-build hotel.

Centrally located on the corner of Little Queen Street and Bourke Street in Melbourne’s CBD, the new Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street will be situated between the developing Docklands precinct and the established “Paris end” of Melbourne, making it an ideal location for both corporate and leisure travellers.

“The signing of Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street is an exciting milestone for us as we re-introduce our flagship brand, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, back into the Melbourne market,” said Heidi Kunkel, vice president, operations, Australasia, Hilton. “With the site having such rich Victorian history and great significance for local Melbournians, this property is certainly a unique addition to our current portfolio. We are thrilled to be partnering with M&L Hospitality to bring our renowned brand of hospitality back to the wonderful city of Melbourne.”

Construction of the hotel on the historically significant Equity Chambers building site has commenced and is due for completion by 2nd Quarter 2020. The hotel will feature 244 stylish guest rooms, including 10 spacious suites, a restaurant and bar, a fully equipped gym, an executive lounge and five meeting & event spaces.

Built in 1931, the Equity Chambers building was designed by architects Oakley & Parkes and is known for its beautiful revival architectural style and Italian Romanesque and Gothic detailing. When designing Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street, M&L Hospitality will work closely with the Heritage Council of Victoria to preserve the building’s heritage significance whilst restoring its original 1930s grandeur and beauty.

“M&L Hospitality is delighted to be expanding its relationship with Hilton in Australia with the signing of Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street,” said Neil Maxwell, Chief Executive Officer of M&L Hospitality. “The agreement builds on our strong existing partnerships with Hilton at properties in Sydney, Melbourne, Christchurch and Prague.”

“The addition of Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street is a great expansion to our DoubleTree-branded property, DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne – Flinders Street, and with two full-service brands in the market, both leaders in their categories, we look forward to serving our guests for any travel need they have,” Said Guy Phillips, senior vice president, development, Asia & Australasia, Hilton.

Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street will join 27 other Hilton Hotels & Resorts presently operating throughout Australasia, four of which are owned by M&L Hospitality.