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Positioned on the most frequented avenues in the heart of Scotland's historic capital sits a giant structure of scaffolding.

For five years, the establishment on the junction of the famous Royal Mile and the adjacent bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Visitors find no available accommodations, pedestrians are directed through narrow walkways, and businesses have abandoned the building.

Remedial work commenced in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a short period, but now fed-up residents have been told the scaffolding could remain until 2027.

Further Delays

The construction firm, the primary firm, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the initial parts of the structure can be dismantled.

A local authority figure a council official has called it a "blight" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is happening with this seemingly endless project?

Background Issues

The establishment with 136 rooms was developed on the site of the former Lothian Regional Council offices in 2009.

Projections from when it initially debuted under the a designer banner, put the development expense at about a significant sum.

Work on the building began not long after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

Part of the road and a large section of pavement leading up to the intersection of the Royal Mile have been left out of action by the project.

Walkers going to and from the a nearby area and Victoria Terrace have been compelled in a line into a confined, sheltered corridor.

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

In a release, its owners said the ongoing project had forced them to change the restaurant's look, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also hosts dining franchise a chain – which has displayed large signs on the framework to remind customers it is open for business.

Slipped Schedules

An update to the a city committee in early this year stated that the process of "exposing" the frontage would commence in February, with a full removal by the end of the year.

But SRM has said that will not happen, referencing "extremely complex" construction issues for the setback.

"We anticipate starting to take down parts of the structure close to the conclusion of 2026, with subsequent enhancements continuing thereafter," they said.

"Efforts are underway closely with all parties to ensure we deliver an better site for the public."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, head of preservation association the a local association, said the work had reinforced the city's reputation of being "protracted" for urban works.

She said those involved in the project had a "public duty" to reduce disruption and should integrate the work into the city's aesthetic.

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

"I don't understand why there is not some attempt to bring it into the streetscape or develop something more artistic and avant-garde."

Project Response

A official statement said work on "measures to enhance the appearance the site" was in progress.

They stated: "We recognize the irritations felt by the community and enterprises.

"This constitutes a lengthy and protracted process, demonstrating the intricacy and magnitude of the repair work required, however we are committed to completing this necessary work as soon as is practicable."

The council leader said the council would "keep applying pressure" on those involved to finish the project.

She said: "This structure has been a negative presence for years, and I share the exasperation of locals and local businesses over these continued delays.

"Nonetheless, I also acknowledge that the company has a duty to make the building secure and that this restoration has been extremely complicated."