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Positioned on the most frequented avenues in the centre of Scotland's historic capital looms a giant structure of construction framework.

For half a decade, the establishment on the corner of the famous Royal Mile and the adjacent bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

Travellers are unable to reserve stays, pedestrians are squeezed through narrow walkways, and establishments have abandoned the building.

Repair work began in 2020 and was initially projected to last a few months, but now frustrated residents have been told the framework could remain until 2027.

Extended Timelines

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the primary firm, says it will be "towards the end" of 2026 before the first sections of the frame can be removed.

Edinburgh's council leader a council official has described it as a "eyesore" on the area, while preservation advocates say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is happening with this apparently perpetual project?

A Problematic Past

The 136-bedroom hotel was constructed on the site of the former Lothian Regional Council offices in 2009.

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

Construction activity began soon after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

A section of the street and a large section of sidewalk leading up to the corner of the tourist drag have been left out of action by the project.

People on foot going to and from the Lawnmarket and Victoria Terrace have been forced in a line into a narrow, covered walkway.

A dining establishment a popular spot left the building and relocated to another city in 2024.

In a release, its operators said building work had compelled them to modify the restaurant's appearance, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also the location of dining franchise a pizza restaurant – which has displayed large notices on the framework to notify customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

An report to the council's transport and environment committee in January this year stated that the process of "revealing" the frontage would begin in February, with a complete dismantling by the close of the year.

But the contractor has said that is incorrect, pointing to "exceptionally intricate" building problems for the setback.

"We project starting to remove parts of the framework close to the conclusion of next year, with further improvements proceeding afterwards," the company commented.

"We are collaborating closely with all parties to ensure we provide an enhanced site for the local area."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, head of preservation association the an advocacy group, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "slow" for urban works.

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

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

"It is puzzling why there is not a try to incorporate it within the urban landscape or produce something more artistic and cutting-edge."

Ongoing Efforts

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

They continued: "We understand the frustrations felt by nearby inhabitants and enterprises.

"This has been a lengthy and protracted process, demonstrating the intricacy and size of the restoration required, however we are dedicated to completing this necessary work as soon as is feasible."

Ms Meagher said the local authority would "continue to put pressure" on those involved to wrap up the project.

She said: "This structure has been a negative presence for years, and I understand the exasperation of residents and local businesses over these persistent hold-ups.

"Nonetheless, I also recognize that the company has a obligation to make the building structurally sound and that this remediation has turned out to be extremely complicated."