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This is how the local newspaper, the Swindon Advertiser, reported the recent past and likely future of the pub on 30 August 2011:

"AN AILING pub in the town could soon be transformed into bedsits if new plans are given the go ahead.

Proposals have been submitted to Swindon Council to transform the Duke of Wellington pub in Eastcott Hill into six bedsits and two one bedroom apartments.

The plans also include a two storey extension to the rear of the property.

The pub, often referred to as Swindon’s smallest pub because of its tiny dimensions, has been closed since April this year.

Within a matter of days, the George pub – which sits next to the Duke of Wellington – also called time and closed up.

John Doyle, 47, who is currently the landlord of the Queensfield in Stratton, was drafted in to turn the George around, but he has since been pulled off the project and he believes it is now up for sale.

He said: “It is really heartbreaking – how many more pubs are we going to lose?

“To lose two iconic and historic pubs on Eastcott Hill is such a blow to the town.

“People need to realise that once these pubs are gone they are gone. They are like corner shops – irreplaceable.

“These buildings are part of our heritage and they need to be saved. Someone needs to stand up and try and save them.

“History is being erased and these beautiful old pubs will be gone forever.

“People in Swindon have got to get out there and support their local pubs otherwise you will just be left with chain brands.”

The pub was named The Duke of Wellington because of his part bringing about legislation on the sale of alcohol in 1830.

Arkell’s bought the buildings in 1869. John Arkell, the great, great grandfather of the current Arkell’s chairman, James, bought the houses on Eastcott Hill and knocked them into one to open a beerhouse.

After he had done that he could not resist naming his new pub in honour of the military commander and politician.

The plans for the Duke of Wellington will be discussed by the council in the coming weeks."