Eaton Homes has won the Larger Housing Scheme of the Year award at the Cowgills North West Homebuilder Awards 2026 for its £30m redevelopment of the former Old Cattle Market site in Beeston.
The Cheshire-based developer received the accolade for its 84-home scheme, which has transformed the historic cattle market into a mixed residential development aimed at first-time buyers, families and downsizers.
The award was presented at the Albert Hall in Manchester and recognises developments of more than 25 homes that demonstrate quality design, strong placemaking and a positive response to their local surroundings.
Judges described Eaton Homes as a “true SME housebuilder” and praised the scheme’s quality, ambition and independent approach, saying it was “impossible to overlook”.
ENVIRONMENTAL ENHANCEMENT
The Old Cattle Market development has been delivered across three phases, with 92% of homes now sold.
A fourth and final phase is due to commence shortly and will include nine houses, three apartments and a convenience store, bringing the project to completion.
The scheme has placed a strong emphasis on open space and environmental enhancement, with between four and five acres of green space incorporated into the development alongside a children’s play area, extensive landscaping and the planting of 144 trees.
Flood mitigation measures, including a sewage treatment tank and water attenuation system, have also been integrated into the design.
ECONOMIC BENEFITS
David Thompson, Managing Director of Eaton Homes, says: “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.”
Thompson says the development had been designed to reflect both the history of the site and the character of the surrounding area.
He adds: “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.”
Eaton Homes said the project has also generated economic benefits locally, with around two-thirds of tradespeople working on the development sourced from within 15 miles of the site.
The company has further used customer feedback gathered through purchaser surveys to refine its specification and approach throughout the development.
