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On one of the most popular thoroughfares in the heart of Scotland's ancient city looms a imposing sight of construction framework.

For half a decade, a prominent hotel on the corner of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

Travellers are unable to reserve stays, pedestrians are funneled through tight corridors, and establishments have vacated the building.

Remedial work started in 2020 and was only expected to last a brief duration, but now exasperated residents have been told the structure could stay in place until 2027.

Further Delays

The construction firm, the primary firm, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the frame can be removed.

The city's political leader a city representative has labeled it a "blight" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "very troublesome".

What is happening with this notoriously protracted project?

Background Issues

The sizeable hotel was constructed on the site of the previous Lothian Regional Council offices in 2009.

Projections from when it initially debuted under the a fashion-branded banner, put the cost of construction at about thirty million pounds.

Remedial efforts started not long after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

A section of the street and a large section of pavement leading up to the corner of the Royal Mile have been rendered unusable by the work.

Walkers going to and from the an adjacent district and Victoria Terrace have been required in a line into a narrow, covered walkway.

An eatery a popular spot left the building and transferred to another city in 2024.

In a comment, its operators said the ongoing project had compelled them to alter the restaurant's facade, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also the location of popular eatery a chain – which has displayed large signs on the framework to notify customers it is operating as usual.

Missed Deadlines

An update to the a city committee in January this year stated that the process of "revealing" the frontage would begin in February, with a complete dismantling by the year's end.

But SRM has said that is incorrect, citing "exceptionally intricate" building problems for the delay.

"We project starting to remove parts of the structure close to the conclusion of next year, with further improvements proceeding afterwards," the company commented.

"Efforts are underway closely with everyone involved to ensure we provide an enhanced site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

Rowan Brown, lead of heritage body the a local association, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for construction projects.

She said those associated with the project had a "civic responsibility" to minimise disruption and should integrate the work into the city's aesthetic.

She said: "It is making the walking experience in that area of the city very hard.

"It is puzzling why there is not a try to bring it into the street view or create something more aesthetic and avant-garde."

Continued Work

A project spokesperson said work on "solutions to enhance the appearance the site" was in progress.

They stated: "We recognize the frustrations felt by the community and shops.

"This has been a lengthy and protracted process, highlighting the complexity and size of the repair work required, however we are committed to finishing this necessary work as soon as is feasible."

The official said the city would "continue to put pressure" on those accountable to wrap up the project.

She said: "This scaffolding has been a blight for years, and I share the exasperation of locals and local businesses over these ongoing postponements.

"However, I also acknowledge that the company has a obligation to make the building secure and that this repair has been extremely complicated."