George's which has been vacant for almost five years.

Formerly the restaurant and bar Gunpowder Cavern, the historic site on Sapper Lane has already been shown to a few interested people, revealed a Works and Engineering spokesman yesterday.

Future uses would not be limited to a restaurant or bar, with Government willing to consider any viable suggestions for the use of the property -- subject to Development Application Board approvals.

The previous co-owner of the Gunpowder Cavern, Rachel DeFontes, was reported to be on the verge of bankruptcy in August, 1995.

And an appeal for tenders for a lease for the site went out in February, 1996, but there was no interest at that time.

The lease then was for five years and the Ministry spokesman said Works and Engineering Minister Alex Scott has called for it to be extended to 21 years.

Applications are available from the Ministry's reception on the third floor of the General Post Office Building on Church Street in Hamilton. The deadline for submissions is November 5.

BUSINESS BUC