The Maricopa County Planning and Zoning Commission approved last week a change in the land-use designation for a large piece of vacant property near 355th Avenue and Indian School Road that could be developed into a large film production lot.

The 1,400 acres in this area had been zoned for mostly residential and retail uses but a shift in market trends has prompted developers to seek alternative uses for the property.

Last year, state lawmakers established the Arizona Motion Picture Production Program to expand and promote film production in the Grand Canyon State. Developers now want to capitalize on this new program by setting aside 320 acres for the Desert Studios Complex.

“Desert Studios plans to develop a variety of studio facilities and sound stages on the property, which also include accessory uses such as parking structures, administrative offices, theaters, trailer parking and miscellaneous warehouse spaces,” planning documents state. In April, The Hollywood Reporter noted “After playing a part in the passage of a $125 million tax incentive program for film and TV projects, Desert Studios unveiled plans to build 52 soundstages on the 320-acre site in Buckeye. The project will cost an estimated $900 million, its backers say.”

According to planning records, the site may also include a film-themed entertainment complex with retail shops, restaurants, and entertainment facilities.

“The County will greatly benefit from the increase in the diverse economic and employment opportunities that are envisioned for this site,” documents state.