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Along the busiest tourist streets in the core of Scotland's historic capital looms a imposing sight of construction framework.

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

Visitors are unable to reserve stays, foot traffic are squeezed through confined passages, and establishments have vacated the building.

Repair work commenced in 2020 and was initially projected to last a brief duration, but now frustrated residents have been told the framework could persist until 2027.

Prolonged Deadlines

The construction firm, the lead company, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the initial parts of the frame can be dismantled.

A local authority figure a city representative has described it as a "blight" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is happening with this notoriously protracted project?

Background Issues

The 136-bedroom hotel was constructed on the site of the old regional authority 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 started not long after the start of the Covid pandemic with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

A section of the street and a significant portion of sidewalk leading up to the intersection of the tourist drag have been left out of action by the development.

People on foot going to and from the an adjacent district and Victoria Terrace have been forced in a line into a confined, sheltered corridor.

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

In a statement, its management said the ongoing project had obliged them to change the restaurant's look, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also home to popular eatery Pizza Express – which has placed large banners on the structure to remind customers it is operating as usual.

Slipped Schedules

An report to the council's transport and environment committee in January this year suggested that the process of "uncovering" the exterior would begin in February, with a total takedown by the end of the year.

But the firm has said that is not the case, citing "extremely complex" building problems for the postponement.

"We project starting to take down parts of the structure towards the end of 2026, with subsequent enhancements proceeding afterwards," a statement read.

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

Local and Conservation Frustration

A conservation official, director of conservation group the Cockburn Association, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "slow" for urban works.

She said those involved in the project had a "obligation to the public" to lessen disturbance and should blend the work into the city's aesthetic.

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

"It is perplexing why there is not a try to incorporate it within the streetscape or produce something more aesthetic and cutting-edge."

Ongoing Efforts

A project spokesperson said work on "solutions to beautify the site" was in progress.

They continued: "We recognize the frustrations felt by local residents and shops.

"This has been a extended and complex process, demonstrating the difficulty and magnitude of the remedial work required, however we are focused on finishing this vital work as soon as is possible."

The council leader said the local authority would "keep applying pressure" on those responsible to finish the project.

She said: "This structure has been a negative presence for years, and I echo the exasperation of locals and nearby shops over these ongoing postponements.

"Nonetheless, I also appreciate that the contractor has a responsibility to make the building safe and that this remediation has turned out to be exceptionally difficult."