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Positioned on the most frequented avenues in the core of Scotland's historic capital stands a imposing sight of construction framework.

For five years, a prominent hotel on the junction of the famous Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

Visitors find no available accommodations, foot traffic are funneled through narrow walkways, and commercial tenants have vacated the building.

Repair work started in 2020 and was initially projected to last a brief duration, but now frustrated residents have been told the scaffolding could stay in place until 2027.

Extended Timelines

The main contractor, the lead company, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the structure can be taken down.

The city's political leader a council official has called it a "negative feature" on the area, while preservation advocates say the work is "highly inconvenient".

What is transpiring with this notoriously protracted project?

Background Issues

The establishment with 136 rooms was constructed on the site of the previous local government offices in 2009.

Figures from when it first opened under the a designer banner, put the build cost at about £30m.

Construction activity started shortly after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a large section of pavement leading up to the corner of the historic street have been closed off by the project.

Walkers going to and from the a nearby area and Victoria Terrace have been compelled single-file into a confined, sheltered corridor.

An eatery a well-known restaurant left the building and transferred to St Andrews in Fife in 2024.

In a statement, its owners said building work had compelled them to alter the restaurant's appearance, adding that "guests were entitled to a superior experience".

It is also the location of dining franchise Pizza Express – which has hung large notices on the framework to remind customers it is open for business.

Delayed Plans

An communication to the council's transport and environment committee in early this year stated that the process of "uncovering" the frontage would begin in February, with a total takedown by the end of the year.

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

"We anticipate starting to remove portions of the structure close to the conclusion of next year, with additional work continuing thereafter," they said.

"We are working closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we create an improved site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

Rowan Brown, director of conservation group the Cockburn 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 design.

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

"It is puzzling why there is not an effort to bring it into the streetscape or create something more aesthetic and innovative."

Ongoing Efforts

A project spokesperson said work on "ideas to enhance the appearance the site" was ongoing.

They stated: "We acknowledge the irritations felt by nearby inhabitants and businesses.

"This constitutes a extended and complex process, reflecting the difficulty and magnitude of the remedial work required, however we are focused on finishing this essential work as soon as is possible."

Ms Meagher said the local authority would "continue to put pressure" on those responsible to complete the project.

She said: "This framework has been a negative presence for years, and I understand the annoyance of residents and area enterprises over these continued delays.

"Nonetheless, I also acknowledge that the contractor has a obligation to make the building secure and that this restoration has been extremely complicated."