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Along the busiest tourist streets in the centre of Scotland's ancient city sits a imposing sight of construction framework.

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

Travellers are unable to reserve stays, foot traffic are squeezed through narrow walkways, and establishments have abandoned the building.

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

Prolonged Deadlines

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the main contractor, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the frame can be removed.

Edinburgh's council leader a council official has described it as a "eyesore" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is going on with this notoriously protracted project?

A Troubled History

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

Projections from when it initially debuted under the a designer banner, put the development expense at about £30m.

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

Part of the road and a significant portion of pavement leading up to the junction of the historic street have been closed off by the project.

Pedestrians going to and from the a nearby area and another locale have been compelled in a line into a tight, enclosed passage.

An eatery Ondine quit the building and transferred to another city in 2024.

In a release, its management said the ongoing project had forced them to alter the restaurant's look, adding that "guests were entitled to a superior experience".

It is also the location of dining franchise a pizza restaurant – which has placed large notices on the scaffold to remind customers it is still open.

Slipped Schedules

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

But the contractor has said that is incorrect, referencing "exceptionally intricate" building problems for the postponement.

"We anticipate starting to take down parts of the framework close to the conclusion of next year, with additional work proceeding afterwards," a statement read.

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

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, head of heritage body the a local association, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for development.

She said those associated with the project had a "public duty" to lessen disruption and should blend the work into the city's design.

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

"It is puzzling why there is not a try to incorporate it within the street view or produce something more creative and innovative."

Ongoing Efforts

A company representative said work on "measures to enhance the appearance the site" was ongoing.

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

"This represents a long and drawn-out process, demonstrating the intricacy and scale of the remedial work required, however we are committed to finishing this essential work as soon as is feasible."

The council leader said the local authority would "maintain pressure" on those accountable to finish the project.

She said: "This structure has been a blight for years, and I understand the annoyance of inhabitants and nearby shops over these ongoing postponements.

"However, I also appreciate that the firm has a obligation to make the building structurally sound and that this repair has turned out to be hugely complex."