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Along the most popular thoroughfares in the core of Scotland's heritage-rich city centre looms a monolith of construction framework.

For half a decade, a prominent hotel on the intersection of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Travellers are unable to reserve stays, foot traffic are squeezed through tight corridors, and establishments have vacated the building.

Restoration efforts commenced in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a brief duration, but now exasperated residents have been told the framework could stay in place until 2027.

Further Delays

The main contractor, the main contractor, says it will be "towards the end" of 2026 before the first sections of the structure can be removed.

The city's political leader Jane Meagher has described it as a "negative feature" on the area, while preservation advocates say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is happening with this seemingly endless project?

A Troubled History

The establishment with 136 rooms was developed on the site of the old regional authority offices in 2009.

Projections from when it originally launched under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the cost of construction at about thirty million pounds.

Remedial efforts got underway 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 junction of the historic street have been left out of action by the work.

Walkers going to and from the a nearby area and Victoria Terrace have been compelled in a line into a tight, enclosed passage.

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

In a comment, its management said the ongoing project had compelled them to modify the restaurant's look, adding that "guests were entitled to a superior experience".

It is also the location of dining franchise Pizza Express – which has hung large signs on the structure to inform customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

An communication to the a city committee in early this year stated that the process of "exposing" the frontage would commence in February, with a total takedown by the year's end.

But SRM has said that will not happen, pointing to "exceptionally intricate" construction issues for the delay.

"We expect starting to take down portions of the framework near the finish of 2026, with further improvements proceeding afterwards," the company commented.

"Efforts are underway closely with everyone involved to ensure we create an better site for the public."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, lead of conservation group the an advocacy group, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "slow" for urban works.

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

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

"I don't understand why there is not some attempt to bring it into the streetscape or produce something more creative and innovative."

Continued Work

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

They continued: "We understand the frustrations felt by nearby inhabitants and enterprises.

"This constitutes a long and drawn-out process, demonstrating the intricacy and scale of the remedial work required, however we are focused on completing this vital work as soon as is feasible."

The official said the council would "maintain pressure" on those involved to finish the project.

She said: "This framework has been a negative presence for years, and I understand the exasperation of inhabitants and local businesses over these persistent hold-ups.

"Nonetheless, I also acknowledge that the firm has a obligation to make the building structurally sound and that this restoration has proved to be extremely complicated."