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Positioned on the most popular thoroughfares in the heart of Scotland's ancient city looms a giant structure of metal poles and platforms.

For half a decade, a prominent hotel on the junction of a key historic street and George IV Bridge has been a covered eyesore.

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

Repair work commenced in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a few months, but now frustrated residents have been told the scaffolding could remain until 2027.

Extended Timelines

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the lead company, says it will be "towards the end" of 2026 before the initial parts of the structure can be taken down.

Edinburgh's council leader a council official has labeled it a "negative feature" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is happening with this apparently perpetual project?

A Troubled History

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

Figures from when it first opened under the a fashion-branded banner, put the build cost at about £30m.

Remedial efforts got underway soon after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself shut for business since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a sizable stretch of footpath 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 required in a line into a tight, enclosed passage.

Seafood restaurant Ondine left the building and moved to a different location in 2024.

In a comment, its operators said construction activity had obliged them to alter the restaurant's look, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also hosts dining franchise a pizza restaurant – which has placed large signs on the framework to inform customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

An communication to the a local authority committee in the start of the 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 will not happen, pointing to "exceptionally intricate" building problems for the postponement.

"We expect starting to take down sections of the structure close to the conclusion of next year, with further improvements proceeding afterwards," a statement read.

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

Local and Conservation Frustration

A conservation official, lead of heritage body the a local association, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "slow" for urban works.

She said those working on the project had a "civic responsibility" to reduce inconvenience and should blend the work into the city's design.

She said: "It is making the walking experience in that area of the city exceptionally challenging.

"It is perplexing why there is not an effort to integrate it into the street view or create something more creative and avant-garde."

Continued Work

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

They added: "We acknowledge the frustrations felt by the community and businesses.

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

The council leader said the local authority would "keep applying pressure" on those involved to wrap up the project.

She said: "This framework has been a problem for years, and I share the annoyance of locals and nearby shops over these ongoing postponements.

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