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Along the busiest tourist streets in the core of Scotland's historic capital stands a monolith of construction framework.

For the past 60 months, the establishment on the intersection of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and the adjacent bridge has been a shrouded blight.

Travellers find no available accommodations, foot traffic are directed through tight corridors, and commercial tenants have vacated the building.

Remedial work started in 2020 and was initially projected to last a few months, but now exasperated residents have been told the scaffolding could stay in place until 2027.

Extended Timelines

The main contractor, the lead company, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the structure can be taken down.

A local authority figure Jane Meagher has labeled it a "eyesore" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is transpiring with this apparently perpetual project?

Background Issues

The sizeable hotel was developed on the site of the previous Lothian Regional Council offices in 2009.

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

Work on the building started not long 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 tourist drag have been left out of action by the work.

People on foot going to and from the an adjacent district and Victoria Terrace have been required in a line into a narrow, covered walkway.

An eatery Ondine left the building and transferred to another city in 2024.

In a statement, its management said building work had forced them to change the restaurant's look, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also hosts popular eatery Pizza Express – which has hung large notices on the framework to inform customers it is operating as usual.

Delayed Plans

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

But the firm has said that is not the case, citing "extremely complex" construction issues for the delay.

"We anticipate starting to dismantle parts of the structure towards the end of the coming year, with subsequent enhancements continuing thereafter," the company commented.

"Efforts are underway closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we create an better site for the local area."

Local and Conservation Frustration

Rowan Brown, lead of conservation group the Cockburn Association, said the work had reinforced the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for urban works.

She said those involved in the project had a "obligation to the public" to lessen disruption and should integrate the work into the city's streetscape.

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

"It is puzzling why there is not an effort to incorporate it within the streetscape or develop something more artistic and avant-garde."

Project Response

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

They added: "We understand the frustrations felt by local residents and enterprises.

"This represents a extended and complex process, highlighting the complexity and magnitude of the repair work required, however we are committed to finishing this essential work as soon as is feasible."

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

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

"However, I also acknowledge that the firm has a responsibility to make the building secure and that this repair has been extremely complicated."