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On one of the busiest tourist streets in the core of Scotland's historic capital looms a imposing sight of scaffolding.

For the past 60 months, the establishment on the junction of the famous Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a shrouded blight.

Visitors find no available accommodations, foot traffic are funneled through narrow walkways, and commercial tenants have left the building.

Repair work started in 2020 and was only expected to last a short period, but now exasperated residents have been told the framework could remain until 2027.

Further Delays

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the primary firm, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the structure can be removed.

The city's political leader Jane Meagher has labeled it a "negative feature" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is going on with this seemingly endless project?

Background Issues

The 136-bedroom hotel was developed on the site of the previous regional authority offices in 2009.

Figures from when it first opened under the a designer banner, put the development expense at about thirty million pounds.

Construction activity started soon after the start of the Covid pandemic with the hotel itself shut for business since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a significant portion of footpath leading up to the junction of the historic street have been closed off by the project.

Walkers going to and from the Lawnmarket and a neighboring street have been forced in a line into a confined, sheltered corridor.

An eatery Ondine quit the building and moved to St Andrews in Fife in 2024.

In a comment, its management said construction activity had compelled them to modify the restaurant's look, adding that "guests were entitled to a superior experience".

It is also hosts popular eatery Pizza Express – which has displayed large banners on the structure to inform customers it is open for business.

Delayed Plans

An update to the a local authority committee in January this year stated that the process of "revealing" the façade would begin in February, with a full removal by the year's end.

But the firm has said that is not the case, referencing "exceptionally intricate" structural challenges for the delay.

"We anticipate starting to take down sections of the framework close to the conclusion of next year, with additional work ongoing after that," a statement read.

"We are working closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we deliver an better site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, lead of heritage body the a local association, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for construction projects.

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

She said: "It renders the walking experience in that part of town really difficult.

"It is perplexing why there is not a try to incorporate it within the urban landscape or create something more aesthetic and innovative."

Ongoing Efforts

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

They stated: "We acknowledge the frustrations felt by the community and enterprises.

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

The official said the council would "maintain pressure" on those involved to finish the project.

She said: "This framework has been a negative presence for years, and I share the annoyance of locals and nearby shops over these ongoing postponements.

"Nonetheless, I also acknowledge that the company has a responsibility to make the building secure and that this remediation has been hugely complex."