A shortlist of five formal bids to bring a Victorian theatre back into use have been revealed by Sutton Council.

More than 10 bids for its lease were submitted ahead of May 11 deadline this year before the proposals were whittled down to just five.

The longlist, revealed on July 6, comprises of a range of different plans – including a church and a gym.

A Sutton Council spokesman said: “Bids will be assessed by council officers and a shortlist decided by the end of August, based on the viability and sustainability of the proposals.

“Feedback on the bids will also be given by representatives of Arts Network Sutton, an independent charity, as well as community representatives on the Carshalton and Clockhouse local committee.”

READ: Final decision on Charles Cryer Theatre not expected until later this year

Alongside a stakeholder panel of citizens and young people, the council spokesman added feedback will later be given on the bids.

They will all assess “how closely” the bids meet the brief to “benefit the wider community and maintain a venue for cultural activity in the borough”.

However, a final decision is not expected until later this year.

Below is a list of the five proposals:

- Caliburn Fitness and Strengthening

Who they are: a startup which is supported by a long-established company.

What they want to do: Use the Charles Cryer as a Crossfit gym, crèche café that will be “health-focused” and accessible to non-members.

It will also have a physiotherapy clinic, exercise studio, and social space to host workshops and seminars related to exercise and nutrition.

- Carshalton Baptist Church

Who they are: a Christian organisation wanting to become a “visible, accessible and supportive” resource in the Carshalton community

What they want to do: Use the Charles Cryer as a church and community café.

They also want to use it for the training and development of residents, as well as offer space to be used by community groups.

It would also be a rehearsal and performance space for local artists, musicians, and theatre groups.

Carshalton Baptist Church also want to run activities and services which are “extended to the community” – this includes parents, toddlers, youth clubs, counselling, and support groups for the elderly and carers.

- Cryer Arts Limited

Who they are: A startup which formed for the bid by founders with experience in running construction, leisure, and the entertainment business.

What they want to do: Use the Charles Cryer for “mixed events” – including music, film, theatre, comedy, food and drink tasting, as well as TED-type talks.

There would also be a new bar and eating space within the existing restaurant.

- Cryer Collective

Who they are: A partnership bid by three organisations – Nickel Support, Tom Franck Productions, and Spilt Milk Kids Café.

What they want to do: Use the Charles Cryer for an annual arts festival, theatre productions, and workshops.

They also want to use it as a centre for developing enterprises, both managed and run by trainees with learning disabilities.

A shop would also open which sells upcycled furniture made by trainees.

- Victory Bible Church International Limited

Who they are: A Christian organisation.

What they want to do: Use the Charles Cryer as a church for social and community activities.

This includes assisting those in hospital, who are homeless, or in prison, by giving them practical support.

They intend to launch “diversity projects” through activities such as funfairs, music concerts and sporting activities.