Developer Mark Bellissimo has withdrawn plans to build a hotel at the proposed Equestrian Village in Wellington, Florida, in response to ongoing public outcry and clear lack of support from the community.

The recently elected council, including new Mayor, Bob Margolis, was not likely to support the land-use request, so Bellissimo has opted instead to work with council as they move forward on construction of the controversial dressage complex, which they still hope will include more commercial components. Plans for the complex include two arenas, five show rings barns, 30,000 square feet of offices, 25,000 square feet of retail and 30,000 square feet of restaurants.

While the outcome for the 96-acre Equestrian Village remains to be seen, close and careful monitoring of the development is guaranteed.