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On one of the most popular thoroughfares in the core of Scotland's historic capital stands a giant structure of metal poles and platforms.

For half a decade, the establishment on the corner of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Travellers cannot book rooms, foot traffic are funneled through narrow walkways, and businesses have vacated the building.

Repair work started in 2020 and was only expected to last a few months, but now frustrated residents have been told the framework could persist until 2027.

Further Delays

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the main contractor, says it will be "towards the end" of 2026 before the initial parts of the frame can be dismantled.

A local authority figure a city representative has labeled it a "eyesore" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "very troublesome".

What is happening with this apparently perpetual project?

A Troubled History

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

Estimates from when it first opened under the a fashion-branded banner, put the development expense at about £30m.

Remedial efforts started shortly after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself shut for business since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a large section of footpath leading up to the intersection of the Royal Mile have been rendered unusable by the project.

Pedestrians going to and from the Lawnmarket and another locale have been forced single-file into a tight, enclosed passage.

A dining establishment Ondine left the building and moved to a different location 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 placed large signs on the framework to notify customers it is still open.

Missed Deadlines

An report to the a local authority committee in January this year stated that the process of "exposing" the frontage would begin in February, with a complete dismantling by the year's end.

But the contractor has said that is not the case, pointing to "extremely complex" construction issues for the setback.

"We expect starting to remove parts of the scaffold close to the conclusion of next year, with further improvements proceeding afterwards," a statement read.

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

Community and Heritage Concerns

Rowan Brown, head of heritage body the a local association, said the work had reinforced the city's reputation of being "slow" for urban works.

She said those working on the project had a "obligation to the public" to reduce disruption and should integrate the work into the city's streetscape.

She said: "It causes the experience for those on foot in that area of the city very hard.

"It is perplexing why there is not an effort to integrate it into the streetscape or produce something more aesthetic and avant-garde."

Continued Work

A official statement said work on "ideas to beautify the site" was ongoing.

They stated: "We understand the annoyances felt by nearby inhabitants and shops.

"This constitutes a extended and complex process, demonstrating the intricacy and magnitude of the restoration required, however we are committed to completing this vital work as soon as is practicable."

Ms Meagher said the council would "keep applying pressure" on those accountable to wrap up the project.

She said: "This framework has been a blight for years, and I echo the frustration of inhabitants and local businesses over these continued delays.

"However, I also acknowledge that the firm has a duty to make the building secure and that this restoration has been exceptionally difficult."