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

For the past 60 months, the establishment on the corner of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and a major bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

Travellers cannot book rooms, pedestrians are directed through tight corridors, and businesses have vacated the building.

Remedial work began in 2020 and was initially projected to last a few months, but now fed-up residents have been told the structure could persist until 2027.

Further Delays

The construction firm, the main contractor, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the initial parts of the scaffold can be taken down.

The city's political leader a council official has labeled it a "eyesore" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "highly inconvenient".

What is happening with this apparently perpetual project?

A Troubled History

The sizeable hotel was built on the site of the old Lothian Regional Council offices in 2009.

Estimates from when it first opened under the a fashion-branded banner, put the build cost at about a significant sum.

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

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

People on foot going to and from the an adjacent district and a neighboring street have been required single-file into a confined, sheltered corridor.

Seafood restaurant a popular spot left the building and moved to a different location in 2024.

In a statement, its management said the ongoing project had compelled them to modify the restaurant's appearance, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also home to popular eatery Pizza Express – which has placed large notices on the structure to inform customers it is open for business.

Delayed Plans

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

But the firm has said that will not happen, citing "highly complicated" construction issues for the setback.

"We project starting to remove parts of the framework close to the conclusion of 2026, with additional work proceeding afterwards," the company commented.

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

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 "slow" for development.

She said those involved in the project had a "civic responsibility" to reduce disturbance and should integrate the work into the city's streetscape.

She said: "It causes the experience for those on foot in that area of the city exceptionally challenging.

"It is puzzling why there is not a try to incorporate it within the street view or develop something more artistic and innovative."

Ongoing Efforts

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

They continued: "We recognize the frustrations felt by the community and businesses.

"This has been a lengthy and protracted process, highlighting the intricacy and scale of the remedial work required, however we are committed to concluding this vital work as soon as is practicable."

Ms Meagher said the city would "continue to put pressure" on those accountable to complete the project.

She said: "This scaffolding has been a blight for years, and I echo the annoyance of inhabitants and local businesses over these continued delays.

"Nonetheless, I also recognize that the company has a duty to make the building secure and that this restoration has been exceptionally difficult."