Eaton Homes has been named winner of the Larger Housing Scheme of the Year title at the Cowgills North West Homebuilder Awards 2026. The Cheshire developer was recognised for its £30 million scheme at The Old Cattle Market in Beeston, a project that has steadily become one of its flagship sites.
The awards were held at Albert Hall in Manchester on Thursday 18 June. Now in their fifth year, they shine a light on the work of small and medium-sized homebuilders across the region.
The category covers developments of more than 25 homes. Judges look for schemes that respond to their surroundings and offer something more thoughtful than a standard layout. Eaton Homes stood out for its 84-home development on the former cattle market site, which includes a mix of apartments and family homes aimed at first-time buyers, downsizers and people who want to stay in the area.
Judges described Eaton Homes as a “true SME housebuilder” and said the scheme was “impossible to overlook”. They praised its independent approach, quality and ambition, adding that Eaton had delivered a development that punched well above its weight.
The development has been delivered across three phases which are now complete and 92 percent of these homes are sold. The fourth phase is due to commence soon which will comprise nine homes, three apartments and a shop, bringing the development to completion.
A large part of the scheme has been shaped around open space and the character of the local landscape. The development includes 4 to 5 acres of green space, 144 trees, a play area and landscaping designed to support biodiversity and sit comfortably within the wider countryside.
David Thompson, Managing Director of Eaton Homes, said: “We are absolutely over the moon. The Old Cattle Market has taken a huge amount of work from the whole team. This award feels special because it recognises the care that has gone into the scheme, not just the number of homes we are building.
“Beeston is a site with a long history. We have always felt a responsibility to get it right. Our aim was to create homes that feel part of the area and give people the space and quality they expect from a local independent homebuilder.”
The company has also focused on keeping the economic value of the project close to home. Around two thirds of the trades working on the scheme are based within 15 miles. Flood-risk measures, including a sewage treatment tank and water attenuation system, have been built into the design, and plans for a convenience shop are progressing.
Buyer feedback has played a role in shaping the development. Eaton Homes introduced a purchaser questionnaire and has used the responses to refine its standard specification.
It was a strong night for the team overall. Claudia Dickens was shortlisted for Outstanding Contribution to the Industry and Abbie Bass was shortlisted for Rising Star of the Year.
David added: “As a small homebuilder, we stay close to every detail. Our team is based on the development, we know our buyers and we can sort things quickly when they need attention. That personal approach has shaped The Old Cattle Market from the start, so seeing it recognised across the North West is a great moment for us.”
