A major residential development could reshape southern Sarasota County as plans move forward to annex nearly 3,000 acres into the City of North Port, potentially paving the way for approximately 6,500 new homes near Wellen Park.

The proposed development, known as Winchester Ranch, encompasses approximately 2,967 acres along South River Road between North Port and Englewood.

The project represents one of the region’s largest potential residential expansions and could significantly influence future infrastructure, commercial development and population growth throughout southern Sarasota County.

North Port and Sarasota County Advance Annexation Discussions

The proposed annexation recently reached an important milestone following decisions by both the North Port City Commission and Sarasota County Commission.

On October 6, 2026, North Port commissioners voted 3-2 to allow the developer to move forward with formal applications involving the city’s comprehensive plan and land development regulations.

The following day, Sarasota County commissioners unanimously approved resolutions allowing negotiations with North Port regarding future municipal boundaries and public services.

The votes do not represent final approval of the annexation or residential development. Additional planning reviews, public hearings and government approvals will be required.

If ultimately approved, the annexation would bring nearly 3,000 additional acres within North Port’s municipal boundaries.

Winchester Ranch Could Add 6,500 Homes

Winchester Ranch is owned by Winchester Florida Ranch LLLP, an entity affiliated with national homebuilder Mattamy Homes.

The property was historically part of the larger Thomas Ranch and is located near the expanding Wellen Park master-planned community.

Earlier development plans contemplated nearly 9,000 residential units. However, the latest projections anticipate approximately 6,500 homes across roughly 2,433 acres designated for residential development.

The broader Winchester Ranch development has been envisioned as a collection of residential neighborhoods supported by infrastructure, recreational amenities and potential commercial uses.

According to development projections, the combined Wellen Park and Winchester Ranch communities could accommodate approximately 22,500 homes by 2040.

That would represent a substantial concentration of residential development in one of Southwest Florida’s fastest-growing areas.

Infrastructure and Utilities Drive Annexation Proposal

One of the primary factors behind the proposed annexation involves access to water and wastewater infrastructure.

The Englewood Water District has faced limitations in its ability to accommodate the anticipated utility demands of future development.

By bringing Winchester Ranch into North Port, the developer could pursue water and wastewater services through the city and the West Villages Improvement District.

The district, established in 2004, helps coordinate infrastructure improvements, including roadways, stormwater management and other public facilities throughout the former Thomas Ranch property.

City and county officials will also need to evaluate the potential impacts on transportation networks, emergency services, schools and other public infrastructure.

Wellen Park Continues Expanding Across Southern Sarasota County

The Winchester Ranch proposal follows years of substantial residential development throughout Wellen Park, North Port, Venice and Englewood.

Wellen Park has become one of Southwest Florida’s most prominent master-planned communities, attracting national homebuilders, new residents and commercial investment.

The nearby Boca Royale at Wellen Park project, being developed by Neal Communities, is separately planned to introduce approximately 825 homes on 507 acres.

As additional neighborhoods move through the planning and construction process, southern Sarasota County could experience continued demand for retail, medical facilities, restaurants and neighborhood services.

The proposed Winchester Ranch development would further extend residential growth along the South River Road corridor.

What This Means for Commercial Real Estate

The potential addition of 6,500 homes represents a significant long-term opportunity for commercial real estate development in southern Sarasota County.

As residential populations increase, demand typically follows for neighborhood-serving commercial uses, including grocery stores, quick-service restaurants, banks, medical offices, fitness centers and convenience-oriented retailers.

For commercial real estate developers and investors, Winchester Ranch could create opportunities to identify strategically located commercial land near future residential entrances, major intersections and transportation corridors.

Improved roadway connectivity and expanded utility infrastructure could also influence the development potential of surrounding properties.

However, the timing of future commercial development will depend on residential construction, infrastructure capacity, entitlements and market demand.

Looking Ahead

The proposed Winchester Ranch annexation remains subject to additional review and approval by the City of North Port and Sarasota County.

City officials must evaluate proposed changes to land-use regulations, infrastructure responsibilities and the potential long-term financial impacts of adding nearly 3,000 acres to the municipality.

If approved, the development could become one of the largest residential growth projects in southern Sarasota County, adding thousands of homes and potentially creating new opportunities for commercial investment.

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