Update on controversial 9 bed flatshare at old Swindon pub

The Tap and Barrel on Manchester Road closed to the public in January 2025 and remained closed ever since.

It was first listed for sale in October 2024 by estate agent Sidney Phillips, which specialises in pub and leisure venues, with an asking price of £350,000.

The pub was bought by Mohammed Ali of Unibros Ltd in September 2025, who then submitted plans to Swindon Borough Council to turn it into a dual-use development, which were approved.

The plans outlined transforming the pub into a nine bed HMO with ensuites and a global foods superstore, with the cellar to be converted into tow large storage spaces.

The plan to convert the Tap & Barrel into a global foodstore (Image: Unibros Ltd)

Six of the rooms are set to have small cooking facilities, and there will also be a communal sitting area and kitchen.

Residents would also have a courtyard in the pub’s grounds, and there will be eight car parking spaces and also bicycle parking.

The plans sparked fierce pushback on social media, with members of the public criticising the decision.

Read more: Anger as former Swindon pub to be turned into 9 bedroom HMO

But work still went ahead and in May 2026 hoardings went up around the front of the property.

Now four months since the last update on the new HMO, there seems to be little difference.

The front is still covered by the same hoardings which first appeared in May, now covered in black tarpaulin, with the same branding for The Tap and Barrel visible on the signs outside.

The windows also still have stickers on them from when the pub was open, alongside a a Guinness sign still hanging outside.

The main visible difference is that the left hand side of the old pub is boarded up around the area where there are plans for the parking spaces and courtyard.

Plus the open windows on the top floor.

It appears that work is still ongoing at the property, but no dates have been given of when the project will be finished.

Although according to Companies House Unibros Ltd has not updated its accounts since December 2025.

Before the pub closed in 2025, a spokesperson for The Tap and Barrel said: "This is such sad news, but it will be the last trading day as The Tap and Barrel.

"From Friday, Saturday and Sunday, come in and have a drink and say your goodbyes to the Tap and Barrel and remember all the good times you all had.

“Hopefully we all see you really soon when the new owners open the doors again. I would to thank you for all your support over the years.”