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Along the most frequented avenues in the heart of Scotland's ancient city stands a monolith of metal poles and platforms.

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

Travellers cannot book rooms, foot traffic are directed through tight corridors, and commercial tenants have vacated the building.

Repair work started in 2020 and was initially projected to last a few months, but now fed-up residents have been told the structure could remain until 2027.

Prolonged Deadlines

The main contractor, the main contractor, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the initial parts of the frame can be dismantled.

The city's political leader a city representative has described it as a "negative feature" on the area, while preservation advocates say the work is "highly inconvenient".

What is happening with this apparently perpetual project?

Background Issues

The establishment with 136 rooms was developed on the site of the former Lothian Regional Council offices in 2009.

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

Remedial efforts began soon after the start of the Covid pandemic with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a significant portion of pavement leading up to the junction of the Royal Mile have been left out of action by the work.

Walkers going to and from the Lawnmarket and Victoria Terrace have been forced in a line into a confined, sheltered corridor.

A dining establishment a popular spot left the building and transferred to a different location in 2024.

In a release, its management said construction activity had forced them to change the restaurant's facade, adding that "guests were entitled to a superior experience".

It is also home to popular eatery a chain – which has hung large banners on the framework to notify customers it is still open.

Missed Deadlines

An communication to the a local authority committee in the start of the year suggested that the process of "exposing" the façade would commence in February, with a total takedown by the year's end.

But the contractor has said that is incorrect, referencing "exceptionally intricate" building problems for the delay.

"We expect starting to dismantle parts of the structure close to the conclusion of 2026, with further improvements ongoing after that," the company commented.

"We are working closely with all parties to ensure we deliver an improved site for the community."

Community and Heritage Concerns

Rowan Brown, head of heritage body the an advocacy group, said the work had reinforced the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for urban works.

She said those involved in the project had a "civic responsibility" to reduce disturbance and should incorporate the work into the city's aesthetic.

She said: "It is making the walking experience in that area of the city very hard.

"I don't understand why there is not some attempt to incorporate it within the streetscape or develop something more creative and avant-garde."

Continued Work

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

They continued: "We understand the annoyances felt by the community and enterprises.

"This represents a lengthy and protracted process, reflecting the intricacy and scale of the restoration required, however we are focused on concluding this vital work as soon as is practicable."

The council leader said the city would "continue to put pressure" on those accountable to complete the project.

She said: "This structure has been a negative presence for years, and I understand the frustration of locals and area enterprises over these ongoing postponements.

"Nonetheless, I also acknowledge that the company has a obligation to make the building safe and that this repair has proved to be extremely complicated."