Hamilton.

The Liquor Licence Authority yesterday approved a provisional beer and wine licence for the Church Street fixture.

Mr. Michael Mello, lawyer for the restaurant, said after 40 to 50 years in existence, the restaurant recently moved its closing time to 10 p.m. from 3 p.m.

Mr. David Cauchi, the restaurant's owner, wanted to expand his clientele to include the dinner crowd, Mr. Mello said in an interview later.

Since then, "quite a number of the patrons have expressed the wish to be able to have beer or wine with their dinner.'' The provisional licence, which could take effect early next week, will not allow the Buckaroo to serve alcohol right away.

It is approval in principle, Mr. Mello said. Now, the restaurant's owner can find out exactly what changes he must make to satisfy the health department and the planning department of the Corporation of Hamilton, he said. Cost estimates will be obtained, and if the owner decides to proceed, a full beer and wine licence will be sought when the work is completed, he said.

After a recent inspection, the health department said the bathroom area is too small and the staff and customer bathrooms should be separated, Mr. Mello said.

And because the restaurant pre-dates the Planning Act, a zoning change from retail-commercial to restaurant is required, he said.

Police have no objections to the full licence being issued, provided all other requirements are satisfied, the hearing was told.

The application for the provisional licence was advertised yesterday. The public has three working days to file any objections.

Senior Magistrate the Wor. Will Francis said the provisional licence will be valid until May 31.

Mr. Mello said the required changes would likely be completed in three months, at the earliest.