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On one of the most frequented avenues in the centre of Scotland's ancient city looms a imposing sight of metal poles and platforms.

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

Tourists cannot book rooms, pedestrians are directed through tight corridors, and commercial tenants have left the building.

Remedial work commenced in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a few months, but now exasperated residents have been told the scaffolding could remain until 2027.

Further Delays

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

Edinburgh's council leader Jane Meagher has labeled it a "blight" on the area, while preservation advocates say the work is "highly inconvenient".

What is transpiring with this apparently perpetual project?

Background Issues

The sizeable hotel was constructed on the site of the previous local government offices in 2009.

Figures from when it originally launched under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the development expense at about a significant sum.

Work on the building began soon after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a significant portion of footpath leading up to the intersection of the Royal Mile have been closed off by the development.

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

A dining establishment a popular spot 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 "customers deserved better".

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

Delayed Plans

An report to the council's transport and environment committee in the start of the year indicated that the process of "uncovering" the frontage would commence in February, with a full removal by the close of the year.

But the contractor has said that will not happen, referencing "exceptionally intricate" construction issues for the postponement.

"We project starting to take down portions of the structure close to the conclusion of next year, with subsequent enhancements continuing thereafter," the company commented.

"We are working closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we provide 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 added to the city's reputation of being "slow" for construction projects.

She said those working on the project had a "civic responsibility" to minimise inconvenience and should blend the work into the city's design.

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

"It is puzzling why there is not a try to integrate it into the street view or produce something more creative and avant-garde."

Project Response

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

They stated: "We understand the irritations felt by the community and businesses.

"This constitutes a lengthy and protracted process, reflecting the difficulty and magnitude of the restoration required, however we are committed to concluding this vital work as soon as is feasible."

The council leader said the city would "maintain pressure" on those involved to wrap up the project.

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

"That said, I also recognize that the contractor has a responsibility to make the building secure and that this remediation has turned out to be hugely complex."