Oakes Farms withdraws plans for new Bonita Springs entertainment complex

BONITA SPRINGS, Fla. (WINK) — Oakes Farms has withdrawn its proposal to transform the old greyhound track in Bonita Springs into an entertainment complex.

WINK News first reported on the proposal last week. Oakes Farms submitted an application to the city to turn the area into a destination known as Oakes Landing.

Reaction from residents was mixed. Some favored the new entertainment complex, while others expressed concerns about potential noise and traffic increases in the area.

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On June 15, city staff received a formal request to withdraw the application from further review and processing.

Bonita Springs Mayor Mike Gibson confirmed the withdrawal but said he had limited information about the project since it had not yet reached zoning or council review.

"Having not come to zoning or council I had not seen anything more other than what was in the news and online," Gibson said in a statement to WINK News.

Gibson noted he received numerous emails from Mediterra residents opposing the project. However, he emphasized the city's approach to such matters.

"When it comes to zoning we always keep an open mind and make all decisions based upon expert testimony made on the record at the hearings," Gibson said.

Oakes Farms has not provided a reason for withdrawing the application.