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On one of the most popular thoroughfares in the core of Scotland's heritage-rich city centre stands a giant structure of construction framework.

For five years, a prominent hotel on the junction of the famous Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Visitors find no available accommodations, foot traffic are funneled through tight corridors, and establishments have left the building.

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

Extended Timelines

The construction firm, the primary firm, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the first sections of the frame can be dismantled.

Edinburgh's council leader Jane Meagher has called it a "negative feature" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is transpiring with this notoriously protracted project?

Background Issues

The establishment with 136 rooms 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 development expense at about a significant sum.

Work on the building began shortly after the start of the Covid pandemic with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a sizable stretch of footpath leading up to the corner of the historic street have been closed off by the project.

Pedestrians going to and from the Lawnmarket and a neighboring street have been compelled in a line into a tight, enclosed passage.

Seafood restaurant a well-known restaurant quit the building and transferred to St Andrews in Fife in 2024.

In a statement, its operators said building work had compelled them to alter the restaurant's appearance, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also hosts dining franchise Pizza Express – which has displayed large notices on the framework to notify customers it is still open.

Missed Deadlines

An report to the a city committee in January this year suggested that the process of "uncovering" the frontage would start in February, with a complete dismantling by the end of the year.

But the firm has said that is incorrect, citing "extremely complex" construction issues for the delay.

"We project starting to take down portions of the scaffold near the finish of the coming year, with subsequent enhancements continuing thereafter," a statement read.

"We are collaborating closely with everyone involved to ensure we deliver an improved site for the public."

Local and Conservation Frustration

Rowan Brown, lead of conservation group the a local association, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for development.

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

She said: "It causes the walking experience in that area of the city really difficult.

"It is puzzling why there is not a try to bring it into the streetscape or create something more artistic and cutting-edge."

Ongoing Efforts

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

They stated: "We recognize the frustrations felt by the community and shops.

"This represents a extended and complex process, reflecting the difficulty and size of the restoration required, however we are focused on completing this essential work as soon as is practicable."

Ms Meagher said the local authority would "maintain pressure" on those responsible to finish the project.

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

"Nonetheless, I also appreciate that the firm has a responsibility to make the building secure and that this repair has been extremely complicated."