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Along the most popular thoroughfares in the heart of Scotland's historic capital looms a monolith of scaffolding.

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

Tourists are unable to reserve stays, walkers are squeezed through tight corridors, and establishments have vacated the building.

Restoration efforts began in 2020 and was initially projected to last a brief duration, but now fed-up residents have been told the scaffolding could persist until 2027.

Further Delays

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

A local authority figure Jane Meagher has labeled it a "blight" on the area, while preservation advocates say the work is "highly inconvenient".

What is happening with this notoriously protracted project?

A Problematic Past

The establishment with 136 rooms was built on the site of the former local government offices in 2009.

Figures from when it initially debuted under the a fashion-branded banner, put the cost of construction at about a significant sum.

Remedial efforts started soon after the start of the Covid pandemic with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a large section of pavement leading up to the intersection of the Royal Mile have been left out of action by the work.

People on foot going to and from the a nearby area and a neighboring street have been forced single-file into a narrow, covered walkway.

A dining establishment a well-known restaurant left the building and relocated to a different location in 2024.

In a comment, its operators said the ongoing project had obliged them to alter the restaurant's facade, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also home to restaurant chain Pizza Express – which has hung large signs on the framework to notify customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

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

But SRM has said that is incorrect, citing "exceptionally intricate" construction issues for the postponement.

"We expect starting to remove portions of the scaffold near the finish of next year, with additional work continuing thereafter," they said.

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

Community and Heritage Concerns

Rowan Brown, head of preservation association the a local association, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for construction projects.

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

She said: "It is making the walking experience in that section exceptionally challenging.

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

Project Response

A company representative said work on "solutions to enhance the appearance the site" was in progress.

They stated: "We acknowledge the irritations felt by local residents and businesses.

"This constitutes a lengthy and protracted process, highlighting the difficulty and scale of the repair work required, however we are dedicated to completing this essential work as soon as is practicable."

The official said the city would "continue to put pressure" on those accountable to wrap up the project.

She said: "This framework has been a problem for years, and I share the exasperation of residents and area enterprises over these continued delays.

"Nonetheless, I also recognize that the company has a responsibility to make the building secure and that this repair has turned out to be extremely complicated."