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On one of the most frequented avenues in the core of Scotland's heritage-rich city centre looms a giant structure of metal poles and platforms.

For five years, the establishment on the junction of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Visitors are unable to reserve stays, walkers are directed through confined passages, and establishments have vacated the building.

Remedial work started in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a short period, but now frustrated residents have been told the scaffolding could persist until 2027.

Further Delays

The main contractor, the primary firm, says it will be "towards the end" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the scaffold can be removed.

Edinburgh's council leader Jane Meagher has described it as a "negative feature" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "very troublesome".

What is happening with this notoriously protracted project?

A Troubled History

The 136-bedroom hotel was constructed on the site of the old local government offices in 2009.

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

Construction activity began shortly after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

Part of the road and a sizable stretch of pavement leading up to the junction of the historic street have been rendered unusable by the project.

Walkers going to and from the a nearby area and a neighboring street have been required in a line into a narrow, covered walkway.

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

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

It is also hosts popular eatery Pizza Express – which has hung large notices on the structure to remind customers it is open for business.

Slipped Schedules

An communication to the council's transport and environment committee in the start of the year suggested that the process of "revealing" the exterior would commence in February, with a total takedown by the end of the year.

But the firm has said that will not happen, citing "extremely complex" construction issues for the postponement.

"We anticipate starting to take down parts of the framework close to the conclusion of the coming year, with additional work continuing thereafter," the company commented.

"We are collaborating closely with all parties to ensure we create an enhanced site for the public."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, head of heritage body the an advocacy group, said the work had reinforced 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 inconvenience and should incorporate the work into the city's streetscape.

She said: "It renders the walking experience in that part of town really difficult.

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

Ongoing Efforts

A official statement said work on "measures to enhance the appearance the site" was ongoing.

They added: "We recognize the frustrations felt by the community and enterprises.

"This represents a lengthy and protracted process, reflecting the intricacy and size of the restoration required, however we are dedicated to completing this vital work as soon as is practicable."

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

She said: "This scaffolding has been a negative presence for years, and I share the frustration of inhabitants and local businesses over these persistent hold-ups.

"Nonetheless, I also appreciate that the company has a obligation to make the building safe and that this repair has been hugely complex."