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

For half a decade, the establishment on the junction of the famous Royal Mile and a major bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Tourists are unable to reserve stays, walkers are directed through confined passages, and commercial tenants have vacated the building.

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

Extended Timelines

The main contractor, the main contractor, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the scaffold can be dismantled.

Edinburgh's council leader a city representative has labeled it a "negative feature" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "very troublesome".

What is happening with this apparently perpetual project?

A Troubled History

The establishment with 136 rooms was built on the site of the former local government offices in 2009.

Estimates from when it initially debuted under the a fashion-branded banner, put the cost of construction at about thirty million pounds.

Remedial efforts began not long after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

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

People on foot going to and from the a nearby area and a neighboring street have been required in a line into a narrow, covered walkway.

Seafood restaurant a popular spot quit the building and moved to another city in 2024.

In a statement, 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 the location of popular eatery a chain – which has displayed large notices on the framework to inform customers it is open for business.

Slipped Schedules

An report to the a local authority committee in January this year stated that the process of "revealing" the frontage would begin in February, with a total takedown by the end of the year.

But the firm has said that is not the case, referencing "extremely complex" construction issues for the delay.

"We project starting to dismantle portions of the structure close to the conclusion of the coming year, with additional work proceeding afterwards," they said.

"We are working closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we provide an enhanced site for the local area."

Community and Heritage Concerns

Rowan Brown, lead of preservation association the an advocacy group, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "protracted" for urban works.

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

She said: "It renders the walking experience in that section exceptionally challenging.

"It is perplexing why there is not some attempt to integrate it into the street view or produce something more creative and cutting-edge."

Continued Work

A project spokesperson said work on "measures to beautify the site" was ongoing.

They continued: "We understand the annoyances felt by local residents and shops.

"This constitutes a long and drawn-out process, demonstrating the complexity and magnitude of the repair work required, however we are dedicated to concluding this essential work as soon as is practicable."

The official said the council would "maintain pressure" on those accountable to complete the project.

She said: "This structure has been a negative presence for years, and I understand the annoyance of residents and local businesses over these ongoing postponements.

"Nonetheless, I also recognize that the company has a obligation to make the building safe and that this repair has been hugely complex."