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

For half a decade, the establishment on the intersection of a key historic street and the adjacent bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Travellers are unable to reserve stays, walkers are directed through narrow walkways, and establishments have vacated the building.

Remedial work commenced in 2020 and was initially projected to last a few months, but now frustrated residents have been told the scaffolding could persist until 2027.

Prolonged Deadlines

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the primary firm, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the first sections of the structure can be removed.

Edinburgh's council leader Jane Meagher has called it a "negative feature" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "highly inconvenient".

What is going on with this seemingly endless project?

Background Issues

The 136-bedroom hotel was developed 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.

Work on the building got underway shortly after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself shut for business since 2022.

Part of the road and a significant portion of footpath leading up to the intersection of the Royal Mile have been closed off by the development.

Walkers going to and from the a nearby area and a neighboring street have been forced in a line into a narrow, covered walkway.

A dining establishment a popular spot quit the building and transferred to another city in 2024.

In a statement, its operators said building work had compelled them to modify the restaurant's look, adding that "guests were entitled to a superior experience".

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

Delayed Plans

An update to the council's transport and environment committee in January this year stated that the process of "exposing" the façade would start in February, with a complete dismantling by the year's end.

But SRM has said that is not the case, citing "highly complicated" building problems for the delay.

"We expect starting to take down portions of the scaffold towards the end of 2026, with subsequent enhancements ongoing after that," a statement read.

"Efforts are underway closely with everyone involved to ensure we create an improved site for the local area."

Community and Heritage Concerns

Rowan Brown, director of heritage body the an advocacy group, said the work had reinforced the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for urban works.

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

She said: "It renders the experience for those on foot in that section really difficult.

"It is puzzling why there is not an effort to incorporate it within the street view or create something more aesthetic and cutting-edge."

Project Response

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

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

"This represents a long and drawn-out process, reflecting the complexity and size of the restoration required, however we are focused on finishing this vital work as soon as is practicable."

The council leader said the local authority would "maintain pressure" on those involved to finish the project.

She said: "This scaffolding has been a negative presence for years, and I share the exasperation of locals and nearby shops over these persistent hold-ups.

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