'All My Children' relocating to LA

Production of soap opera All My Children will move from New York to Los Angeles in a bid to cut operating costs, ABC has announced.

Production will move to the West Coast in December, with filming commencing from the week of January 4, 2010.

The move, which coincides with the soap's 40th anniversary, will see the series enjoy a studio double the size of its current home, allowing for permanent sets to be constructed. Space restraints at the current studio force production crews to dismantle and reconstruct a number of sets on a daily basis.

"All My Children is one of the most recognisable brands in television and we are committed to continue telling and enhancing the stories of the residents of Pine Valley," said ABC daytime president Brian Frons.

All My Children's creator Agnes Nixon applauded the decision, saying: "I am so grateful for the wonderful commitment from ABC to All My Children.

"While I will miss being able to run over to the show... it feels a little like I am sending one of my children off to be married. I am glad the network is making moves that will enable the team to continue telling stories about Pine Valley. There are many more secrets to be revealed."

Meanwhile, sister soap One Life to Live will move into All My Children's studio once the series has relocated to LA.