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On one of the most frequented avenues in the heart of Scotland's historic capital stands a monolith of metal poles and platforms.

For the past 60 months, the establishment on the intersection of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

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

Restoration efforts commenced in 2020 and was initially projected to last a short period, but now fed-up residents have been told the structure could remain until 2027.

Extended Timelines

The main contractor, the primary firm, says it will be "towards the end" of 2026 before the first sections of the scaffold 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 transpiring with this notoriously protracted project?

A Troubled History

The establishment with 136 rooms was built on the site of the previous Lothian Regional Council offices in 2009.

Projections from when it originally launched under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the cost of construction at about a significant sum.

Construction activity began soon after the start of the Covid pandemic with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a large section of sidewalk leading up to the junction of the historic street have been left out of action by the project.

Pedestrians going to and from the Lawnmarket and Victoria Terrace have been required in a line into a tight, enclosed passage.

An eatery a well-known restaurant quit the building and moved to another city in 2024.

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

It is also home to dining franchise Pizza Express – which has hung large signs on the framework to inform customers it is open for business.

Delayed Plans

An communication to the a city committee in early this year suggested that the process of "uncovering" the façade would commence in February, with a complete dismantling by the end of the year.

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

"We project starting to dismantle parts of the framework near the finish of 2026, with additional work continuing thereafter," the company commented.

"Efforts are underway closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we provide an better site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A conservation official, head of preservation association the an advocacy group, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for construction projects.

She said those associated with the project had a "civic responsibility" to minimise disturbance and should incorporate the work into the city's streetscape.

She said: "It causes the walking experience in that part of town very hard.

"I don't understand why there is not some attempt to integrate it into the urban landscape or create something more artistic and innovative."

Continued Work

A official statement said work on "solutions to beautify the site" was continuing.

They continued: "We recognize the irritations felt by the community and businesses.

"This represents a long and drawn-out process, demonstrating the complexity and scale of the restoration required, however we are dedicated to finishing this essential work as soon as is possible."

Ms Meagher said the local authority would "keep applying pressure" on those involved to complete the project.

She said: "This framework has been a problem for years, and I share the exasperation of inhabitants and nearby shops over these persistent hold-ups.

"Nonetheless, I also acknowledge that the company has a duty to make the building secure and that this remediation has proved to be hugely complex."