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On one of the most popular thoroughfares in the heart of Scotland's historic capital stands a giant structure of construction framework.

For the past 60 months, a prominent hotel on the intersection of the famous Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a shrouded blight.

Travellers cannot book rooms, foot traffic are squeezed through narrow walkways, and businesses have abandoned the building.

Remedial work began in 2020 and was only expected to last a brief duration, but now frustrated residents have been told the scaffolding could stay in place until 2027.

Extended Timelines

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

The city's political leader a council official has described it as a "blight" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "highly inconvenient".

What is transpiring with this seemingly endless project?

Background Issues

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 a significant sum.

Remedial efforts began shortly after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself shut for business since 2022.

Part of the road and a sizable stretch of footpath leading up to the corner of the tourist drag have been left out of action by the development.

Walkers going to and from the an adjacent district and Victoria Terrace have been compelled in a line into a confined, sheltered corridor.

A dining establishment a well-known restaurant left the building and moved to another city in 2024.

In a release, its owners said construction activity had compelled them to alter the restaurant's facade, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also the location of popular eatery Pizza Express – which has displayed large banners on the framework to notify customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

An update to the council's transport and environment committee in the start of the year suggested that the process of "uncovering" the frontage would start in February, with a total takedown by the year's end.

But SRM has said that will not happen, referencing "exceptionally intricate" structural challenges for the setback.

"We expect starting to remove portions of the structure towards the end of 2026, with subsequent enhancements proceeding afterwards," a statement read.

"We are working closely with all parties to ensure we create an better site for the local area."

Local and Conservation Frustration

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

She said those working on the project had a "public duty" to reduce disruption and should incorporate the work into the city's aesthetic.

She said: "It causes the pedestrian experience in that area of the city exceptionally challenging.

"It is puzzling why there is not a try to integrate it into the street view or develop something more creative and avant-garde."

Continued Work

A company representative said work on "measures to aesthetically improve the site" was ongoing.

They continued: "We acknowledge the annoyances felt by nearby inhabitants and enterprises.

"This has been a lengthy and protracted process, highlighting the intricacy and magnitude of the repair work required, however we are dedicated to concluding this vital work as soon as is possible."

The council leader said the city would "keep applying pressure" on those responsible to wrap up the project.

She said: "This framework has been a blight for years, and I share the frustration of locals and local businesses over these continued delays.

"That said, I also appreciate that the firm has a duty to make the building safe and that this restoration has proved to be exceptionally difficult."