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On one of the most frequented avenues in the heart of Scotland's ancient city sits a imposing sight of construction framework.

For half a decade, the establishment on the intersection of the famous Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Tourists find no available accommodations, foot traffic are squeezed through confined passages, and businesses have abandoned the building.

Restoration efforts commenced in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a short period, but now frustrated residents have been told the scaffolding could remain until 2027.

Further Delays

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the primary firm, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the frame can be removed.

Edinburgh's council leader Jane Meagher has described it as a "blight" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is transpiring with this apparently perpetual project?

A Problematic Past

The sizeable hotel was built on the site of the former regional authority offices in 2009.

Figures from when it first opened under the a designer banner, put the development expense at about a significant sum.

Work on the building started shortly after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself shut for business since 2022.

Part of the road and a large section of pavement leading up to the corner of the tourist drag have been closed off by the development.

Walkers going to and from the Lawnmarket and a neighboring street have been forced one after another into a narrow, covered walkway.

Seafood restaurant Ondine departed from the building and relocated to a different location in 2024.

In a comment, its management said building work had compelled them to alter the restaurant's appearance, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also the location of restaurant chain a pizza restaurant – which has placed large banners on the framework to remind customers it is still open.

Missed Deadlines

An update to the a local authority committee in January this year suggested that the process of "exposing" the exterior would begin in February, with a full removal by the end of the year.

But SRM has said that will not happen, pointing to "exceptionally intricate" structural challenges for the postponement.

"We anticipate starting to remove portions of the framework near the finish of 2026, with further improvements proceeding afterwards," they said.

"We are working closely with everyone involved to ensure we provide an better site for the local area."

Local and Conservation Frustration

Rowan Brown, director of preservation association the Cockburn Association, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "protracted" for urban works.

She said those working on the project had a "obligation to the public" to minimise disturbance and should integrate the work into the city's aesthetic.

She said: "It is making the experience for those on foot in that section exceptionally challenging.

"I don't understand why there is not a try to incorporate it within the street view or develop something more artistic and innovative."

Project Response

A company representative said work on "ideas to beautify the site" was in progress.

They continued: "We understand the frustrations felt by local residents and shops.

"This constitutes a lengthy and protracted process, reflecting the intricacy and size of the repair work required, however we are focused on finishing this essential work as soon as is practicable."

The official said the city would "maintain pressure" on those accountable to complete the project.

She said: "This structure has been a problem for years, and I share the annoyance of inhabitants and area enterprises over these persistent hold-ups.

"However, I also appreciate that the contractor has a duty to make the building structurally sound and that this repair has been extremely complicated."