Bodega in Soldiers Hill was granted a liquor licence and extended trading hours at a council meeting on Wednesday night, after prolonged discussion about what time meal service should be completed.

While council officers recommended the function space close by 9pm, the cafe’s representative consultant James Robson successfully argued that a viable business wouldn’t have functions wrapped up before 10pm. 

Mr Robson told the meeting the function space was insulated, meaning there wouldn’t be any adverse amenity impacts to a slightly later closing hour.

The cafe plans to place shipping containers and an accessible toilet behind the commercial building, with current gallery space to be used as the restaurant and function centre.

In a report, City of Ballarat’s planning officers said it was clear there would be few amenity issues with alcohol to “compliment the focus of the serving of meals”.