The Irish pub and restaurant in the Emporium Building will expand into office space on the same floor, adding about 1,700 square feet to the bar area, Mr.

Donald Hassell told The Royal Gazette .

The work, expected to cost $250,000, will start in about two weeks, he said.

The existing pub and restaurant would remain open during construction, with the expanded area set to open on February 1.

Once completed, "It's going to look more like an American sports bar,'' complete with three large-screen television sets, a pool table, and a dart board, Mr. Hassell said.

Seating for about 40 people who wish to dine would be added to the bar area.

On Tuesday, the Liquor Licensing Authority granted the Front Street establishment a provisional liquor licence for the expansion area. It expires on February 28.

An building application is before the Planning Department.