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Along the most frequented avenues in the heart of Scotland's ancient city stands a imposing sight of metal poles and platforms.

For five years, the establishment on the intersection of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and a major bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

Tourists are unable to reserve stays, foot traffic are directed through confined passages, and businesses have left the building.

Remedial work commenced in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a brief duration, but now fed-up residents have been told the scaffolding could stay in place until 2027.

Extended Timelines

The construction firm, the lead company, says it will be "towards the end" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the frame can be removed.

A local authority figure a council official has labeled it a "negative feature" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "highly inconvenient".

What is transpiring with this seemingly endless project?

Background Issues

The sizeable hotel was constructed on the site of the old local government offices in 2009.

Figures from when it originally launched under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the build cost at about £30m.

Remedial efforts started shortly after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a significant portion of footpath leading up to the corner of the tourist drag have been closed off by the development.

People on foot going to and from the a nearby area and a neighboring street have been compelled in a line into a tight, enclosed passage.

Seafood restaurant a well-known restaurant left the building and transferred to another city in 2024.

In a comment, its operators said construction activity had obliged them to alter the restaurant's facade, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also hosts restaurant chain a pizza restaurant – which has hung large banners on the framework to remind customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

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

But the contractor has said that is not the case, citing "exceptionally intricate" structural challenges for the setback.

"We expect starting to dismantle portions of the structure towards the end of the coming year, with further improvements continuing thereafter," the company commented.

"Efforts are underway closely with all parties to ensure we deliver an enhanced site for the public."

Community and Heritage Concerns

A heritage director, lead of heritage body the Cockburn Association, said the work had reinforced the city's reputation of being "slow" for development.

She said those associated with the project had a "obligation to the public" to minimise inconvenience and should integrate the work into the city's streetscape.

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

"I don't understand why there is not an effort to incorporate it within the urban landscape or produce something more aesthetic and cutting-edge."

Ongoing Efforts

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

They stated: "We recognize the annoyances felt by local residents and businesses.

"This represents a extended and complex process, demonstrating the complexity and scale of the remedial work required, however we are committed to completing this essential work as soon as is possible."

The council leader said the city would "maintain pressure" on those involved to complete the project.

She said: "This framework has been a problem for years, and I understand the frustration of residents and local businesses over these persistent hold-ups.

"Nonetheless, I also recognize that the contractor has a duty to make the building safe and that this repair has been extremely complicated."