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Positioned on the most popular thoroughfares in the heart of Scotland's ancient city looms a monolith of construction framework.

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

Travellers cannot book rooms, pedestrians are directed through narrow walkways, and establishments have vacated the building.

Repair work commenced in 2020 and was only expected to last a brief duration, but now exasperated residents have been told the scaffolding could persist until 2027.

Prolonged Deadlines

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 taken down.

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

What is transpiring with this apparently perpetual project?

Background Issues

The sizeable hotel was constructed on the site of the previous regional authority offices in 2009.

Figures from when it originally launched under the a fashion-branded banner, put the cost of construction at about a significant sum.

Construction activity started not long after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself shut for business since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a significant portion of footpath leading up to the corner 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 compelled in a line into a tight, enclosed passage.

A dining establishment a well-known restaurant departed from the building and relocated to a different location in 2024.

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

It is also home to popular eatery a pizza restaurant – which has hung large signs on the framework to remind customers it is still open.

Missed Deadlines

An report to the a city committee in early this year stated that the process of "revealing" the façade would start in February, with a complete dismantling by the end of the year.

But SRM has said that is incorrect, citing "extremely complex" construction issues for the setback.

"We anticipate starting to remove portions of the framework close to the conclusion of 2026, with subsequent enhancements proceeding afterwards," a statement read.

"Efforts are underway closely with all parties to ensure we create an improved site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, head of preservation association the an advocacy group, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "protracted" for construction projects.

She said those involved in the project had a "obligation to the public" to reduce inconvenience and should blend the work into the city's design.

She said: "It causes the pedestrian experience in that part of town exceptionally challenging.

"It is puzzling why there is not some attempt to integrate it into the street view or produce something more creative and innovative."

Ongoing Efforts

A official statement said work on "solutions to aesthetically improve the site" was in progress.

They added: "We acknowledge the frustrations felt by local residents and shops.

"This represents a extended and complex process, demonstrating the intricacy and magnitude of the restoration required, however we are focused on completing this essential work as soon as is practicable."

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

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

"However, I also recognize that the contractor has a duty to make the building structurally sound and that this repair has turned out to be exceptionally difficult."