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On one of the most frequented avenues in the core of Scotland's historic capital stands a monolith of scaffolding.

For the past 60 months, the establishment on the junction of the famous Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

Travellers find no available accommodations, foot traffic are squeezed through confined passages, and businesses have left the building.

Repair work began in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a short period, but now fed-up residents have been told the structure could persist until 2027.

Prolonged Deadlines

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the primary firm, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the structure can be removed.

A local authority figure a city representative has labeled it a "eyesore" on the area, while preservation advocates say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is going on with this notoriously protracted project?

Background Issues

The 136-bedroom hotel was developed on the site of the old local government offices in 2009.

Projections from when it originally launched under the a fashion-branded banner, put the build cost at about thirty million pounds.

Work on the building began not long after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

Part of the road and a significant portion of sidewalk leading up to the corner of the historic street have been left out of action by the project.

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

An eatery a popular spot departed from the building and moved to a different location in 2024.

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

It is also the location of dining franchise a chain – which has placed large signs on the framework to remind customers it is operating as usual.

Slipped Schedules

An communication to the a local authority committee in January this year indicated that the process of "revealing" the exterior would commence in February, with a total takedown by the end of the year.

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

"We anticipate starting to take down portions of the structure towards the end of the coming year, with further improvements continuing thereafter," they said.

"We are working closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we deliver an improved site for the public."

Community and Heritage Concerns

A conservation official, director of conservation group the an advocacy group, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "slow" for development.

She said those associated with the project had a "public duty" to reduce inconvenience and should incorporate the work into the city's design.

She said: "It is making the walking experience in that part of town really difficult.

"It is perplexing why there is not a try to bring it into the urban landscape or produce something more creative and innovative."

Continued Work

A project spokesperson said work on "measures to aesthetically improve the site" was continuing.

They added: "We recognize the annoyances felt by the community and shops.

"This represents a lengthy and protracted process, demonstrating the complexity and magnitude of the remedial work required, however we are focused on completing this essential work as soon as is feasible."

Ms Meagher said the council would "maintain pressure" on those responsible to wrap up the project.

She said: "This structure has been a negative presence for years, and I understand the frustration of locals and local businesses over these ongoing postponements.

"Nonetheless, I also appreciate that the contractor has a obligation to make the building secure and that this repair has been exceptionally difficult."