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Positioned on the most frequented avenues in the centre of Scotland's ancient city stands a giant structure of construction framework.

For half a decade, the establishment on the junction of the famous Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Visitors are unable to reserve stays, pedestrians are directed through confined passages, and establishments have abandoned the building.

Restoration efforts commenced in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a brief duration, but now frustrated residents have been told the framework could stay in place 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 scaffold can be taken down.

A local authority figure a city representative has called it a "negative feature" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "very troublesome".

What is transpiring with this notoriously protracted project?

A Problematic Past

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

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

Construction activity got underway shortly after the start of the Covid pandemic with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a sizable stretch of pavement leading up to the intersection of the historic street have been left out of action by the development.

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

An eatery Ondine left the building and relocated to St Andrews in Fife in 2024.

In a comment, its operators said the ongoing project had compelled them to alter the restaurant's facade, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also home to popular eatery a chain – which has displayed large signs on the structure to remind customers it is operating as usual.

Delayed Plans

An communication to the a local authority committee in the start of the year stated that the process of "revealing" the façade would begin in February, with a full removal by the end of the year.

But the contractor has said that is incorrect, citing "extremely complex" building problems for the setback.

"We anticipate starting to dismantle sections of the framework towards the end of 2026, with further improvements proceeding afterwards," the company commented.

"We are collaborating closely with everyone involved to ensure we deliver an improved site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

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

She said those working on the project had a "civic responsibility" to lessen disturbance and should integrate the work into the city's design.

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

"It is perplexing why there is not an effort to integrate it into the streetscape or develop something more artistic and innovative."

Continued Work

A project spokesperson said work on "solutions to aesthetically improve the site" was in progress.

They added: "We recognize the annoyances felt by nearby inhabitants and shops.

"This has been a extended and complex process, demonstrating the complexity and size of the restoration required, however we are dedicated to concluding this essential work as soon as is feasible."

Ms Meagher said the council would "keep applying pressure" on those involved to complete the project.

She said: "This scaffolding has been a blight for years, and I understand the annoyance of residents and nearby shops over these continued delays.

"However, I also recognize that the firm has a obligation to make the building structurally sound and that this repair has turned out to be hugely complex."