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On one of the most frequented avenues in the heart of Scotland's ancient city looms a giant structure of construction framework.

For half a decade, a prominent hotel on the corner of the famous Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a shrouded blight.

Visitors cannot book rooms, foot traffic are directed through tight corridors, and establishments have left the building.

Repair work began in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a short period, but now exasperated residents have been told the framework could stay in place until 2027.

Extended Timelines

The construction firm, the primary firm, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the initial parts of the frame can be dismantled.

Edinburgh's council leader Jane Meagher has described it as a "blight" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "highly inconvenient".

What is going on with this notoriously protracted project?

Background Issues

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

Figures from when it first opened under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the cost of construction at about £30m.

Remedial efforts began shortly after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

A section of the street and a significant portion of footpath leading up to the intersection of the historic street have been left out of action by the development.

Walkers going to and from the an adjacent district and a neighboring street have been forced in a line into a tight, enclosed passage.

Seafood restaurant a well-known restaurant left the building and relocated to a different location in 2024.

In a statement, its owners said construction activity had compelled them to alter the restaurant's look, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also the location of popular eatery a pizza restaurant – which has displayed large notices on the framework to inform customers it is operating as usual.

Slipped Schedules

An communication to the council's transport and environment committee in January this year indicated that the process of "uncovering" the façade would start in February, with a total takedown by the end of the year.

But SRM has said that will not happen, referencing "highly complicated" construction issues for the delay.

"We anticipate starting to remove portions of the framework near the finish of the coming year, with further improvements ongoing after that," they said.

"We are working closely with all parties to ensure we provide an better site for the public."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A conservation official, lead of conservation group the a local association, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "protracted" for construction projects.

She said those associated with the project had a "public duty" to minimise disturbance and should integrate the work into the city's streetscape.

She said: "It renders the experience for those on foot in that section really difficult.

"It is perplexing why there is not an effort to bring it into the urban landscape or develop something more artistic and innovative."

Continued Work

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

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

"This has been a lengthy and protracted process, reflecting the complexity and magnitude of the repair work required, however we are dedicated to completing this necessary work as soon as is possible."

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

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

"That said, I also recognize that the contractor has a responsibility to make the building secure and that this restoration has turned out to be exceptionally difficult."