Northstone has been named as a finalist in two categories at the prestigious Unlock Net Zero Awards 2026, recognising the housebuilder’s commitment to delivering sustainable communities and driving innovation in low-carbon housing.
The business has been shortlisted in the Best Collaboration category for its groundbreaking Nine74 home at its Tulach development and in the New Build Development of the Year category for Abri, its pioneering affordable net-zero housing scheme in Wigan.
The Unlock Net Zero Awards celebrate organisations, projects and partnerships that are accelerating the transition to a net-zero future across the built environment and Northstone’s double recognition highlights the company’s continued focus on delivering homes that combine sustainability, innovation and long-term value for residents.
The Best Collaboration nomination recognises Northstone’s partnership with Ultrapanel and Wondrwall on Nine74, an innovative prototype home designed to demonstrate how modern methods of construction, advanced building performance and intelligent energy management can work together to create highly efficient, future-ready homes.
Delivered at Northstone’s Tulach development, the project combines a thermally enhanced panelised construction system with renewable energy technologies and an AI-powered Home Energy Management System. The result is an EPC A-rated home that delivers exceptional energy performance while helping residents reduce both carbon emissions and running costs.
Meanwhile, Abri, Northstone’s development in Wigan delivered in partnership with Great Places Housing Group, has been shortlisted in the New Build Development of the Year category.
The 66-home scheme has transformed the former Pemberton Colliery site into a thriving mixed-tenure community, providing affordable rent, social rent and shared ownership homes built to EPC A standards. Every property features enhanced insulation, air source heat pumps and solar PV panels, ensuring residents benefit from lower energy bills while supporting Greater Manchester’s ambitious net-zero housing objectives.
The development also incorporates a specially adapted Jacob’s Place home, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity remain central to the scheme’s design. Richard O’Brien, Design Director at Northstone, said: “We are incredibly proud to be recognised in two categories at the Unlock Net Zero Awards. Both projects demonstrate our belief that sustainability should be embedded into every aspect of development, from how homes are designed and built through to how communities are created and supported for the long term.
“Nine74 showcases the power of collaboration and innovation in helping the industry accelerate towards net zero, while Abri proves that high-quality, affordable housing and ambitious environmental performance can go hand in hand.
“To be recognised alongside some of the most forward-thinking organisations in the sector is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved.” Helen Wildin, Head of Sales at Ultrapanel, said: ” The project demonstrates how advanced panelised construction, integrated renewable technologies and intelligent energy management can work together to improve building performance and reduce operational carbon.
“By combining a high-performance building fabric with innovative energy solutions, Nine74 showcases a scalable approach to delivering low-carbon homes that are efficient, cost- effective and future ready. We’re proud to have collaborated with Northstone and Wondrwall on a project that is helping to drive innovation in sustainable housebuilding.” The nominations build on Northstone’s growing reputation for delivering sustainable homes and communities across the North West, while exploring innovative construction methods and technologies that can help shape the future of housebuilding.
For more information visit www.northstone.co.uk