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On one of the most frequented avenues in the centre of Scotland's ancient city sits a imposing sight of scaffolding.

For half a decade, the establishment on the intersection of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and a major bridge has been a shrouded blight.

Tourists cannot book rooms, pedestrians are directed through narrow walkways, and commercial tenants have vacated the building.

Remedial work began in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a brief duration, but now frustrated residents have been told the scaffolding could persist until 2027.

Further Delays

The main contractor, the main contractor, says it will be "towards the end" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the frame can be removed.

A local authority figure a city representative has labeled it a "eyesore" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is going on with this seemingly endless project?

Background Issues

The sizeable hotel was built on the site of the old local government offices in 2009.

Projections from when it initially debuted under the a fashion-branded banner, put the cost of construction at about a significant sum.

Work on the building 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 sidewalk leading up to the junction of the tourist drag have been rendered unusable by the development.

People on foot going to and from the a nearby area and a neighboring street have been forced in a line into a tight, enclosed passage.

A dining establishment Ondine quit the building and moved to St Andrews in Fife in 2024.

In a release, its management said building work had compelled them to change the restaurant's appearance, adding that "guests were entitled to a superior experience".

It is also hosts restaurant chain a pizza restaurant – which has hung large signs on the framework to remind customers it is still open.

Missed Deadlines

An report to the council's transport and environment committee in January this year suggested that the process of "exposing" the exterior would commence in February, with a complete dismantling by the end of the year.

But the firm has said that is incorrect, pointing to "exceptionally intricate" structural challenges for the setback.

"We project starting to remove portions of the structure near the finish of next year, with additional work ongoing after that," the company commented.

"Efforts are underway closely with everyone involved to ensure we create an enhanced site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

Rowan Brown, director of conservation group the an advocacy group, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for construction projects.

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

She said: "It renders the pedestrian experience in that part of town exceptionally challenging.

"I don't understand why there is not a try to integrate it into the urban landscape or produce something more creative and avant-garde."

Project Response

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

They added: "We acknowledge the annoyances felt by nearby inhabitants and enterprises.

"This represents a lengthy and protracted process, highlighting the intricacy and size of the restoration required, however we are committed to completing this essential work as soon as is possible."

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

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

"However, I also recognize that the firm has a obligation to make the building secure and that this restoration has proved to be extremely complicated."