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Along the most frequented avenues in the centre of Scotland's heritage-rich city centre looms a giant structure of metal poles and platforms.

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

Travellers are unable to reserve stays, foot traffic are squeezed through narrow walkways, and commercial tenants have vacated the building.

Remedial work commenced in 2020 and was initially projected to last a short period, but now exasperated residents have been told the structure could persist until 2027.

Extended Timelines

The construction firm, the main contractor, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the first sections of the frame can be taken down.

The city's political leader a city representative has called it a "eyesore" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "highly inconvenient".

What is going on with this apparently perpetual project?

A Problematic Past

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

Projections from when it first opened under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the development expense at about £30m.

Work on the building got underway not long after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a sizable stretch of pavement leading up to the corner of the Royal Mile have been closed off by the work.

Pedestrians going to and from the Lawnmarket and another locale have been forced in a line into a confined, sheltered corridor.

Seafood restaurant Ondine quit the building and transferred to another city in 2024.

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

It is also the location of dining franchise a pizza restaurant – which has hung large banners on the framework to inform customers it is open for business.

Delayed Plans

An report to the a city committee in early this year stated that the process of "revealing" the exterior would begin in February, with a total takedown by the year's end.

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

"We anticipate starting to dismantle sections of the structure near the finish of 2026, with additional work ongoing after that," a statement read.

"Efforts are underway closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we create an improved site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A conservation official, head of conservation group the an advocacy group, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for urban works.

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

She said: "It causes the walking experience in that section very hard.

"I don't understand why there is not a try to integrate it into the urban landscape or develop something more artistic and cutting-edge."

Ongoing Efforts

A official statement said work on "ideas to aesthetically improve the site" was in progress.

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

"This represents a lengthy and protracted process, reflecting the complexity and magnitude of the restoration required, however we are focused on finishing this essential work as soon as is practicable."

The official said the city would "keep applying pressure" on those accountable to finish the project.

She said: "This structure has been a blight for years, and I echo the frustration of inhabitants and nearby shops over these persistent hold-ups.

"Nonetheless, I also acknowledge that the firm has a obligation to make the building secure and that this repair has turned out to be exceptionally difficult."