Public hall and theatre closure threats in Sutton form the backdrop of a new consultation launched today, Tuesday September 9.

The borough council has launched a survey into the attitudes surrounding cultural activities and events in the area having announced plans to shut The Charles Cryer Theatre and workshop in Carshalton, The Secombe Theatre, Sutton, and Wallington Public Hall.

The proposed closures are part of Sutton Council's attempt to slash £40 million from its budget over the next five years.

Questions in the survey include how often the venues had been visited, how frequently theatres outside the borough were attended, as well as a range of questions on the value of certain cultural aspects in the borough.

The prologue to the consultation, part of the borough's Sutton's Future campaign, reads: "In a previous survey it was found that although few residents visited cultural venues in Sutton, the local cultural offer was still important to residents.

"Further to the previous survey the council now wants to make a number of decisions with regards to the future of cultural services in Sutton."

The current plans show the theatres will be offered to community groups or private enterprise to take over.

Groups interested in taking over the theatres have been warned each venue is expected to be valued in the millions.

Wallington Public Hall is earmarked for development should the proposals go ahead.

To have your say on the future of Sutton's cultural provision visit http://www.opinionsuite.com/sutton/chief-executives-group/theatres-halls-in-sutton.