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Along the most frequented avenues in the heart of Scotland's ancient city sits a giant structure of construction framework.

For half a decade, the establishment on the corner of a key historic street and George IV Bridge has been a shrouded blight.

Travellers are unable to reserve stays, pedestrians are squeezed through tight corridors, and businesses have abandoned the building.

Remedial work commenced in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a short period, but now fed-up residents have been told the structure could stay in place until 2027.

Prolonged Deadlines

The construction firm, the lead company, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the first sections of the scaffold can be removed.

A local authority figure a city representative has called it a "blight" on the area, while preservation advocates say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is going on with this apparently perpetual project?

Background Issues

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

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

Remedial efforts began soon after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a significant portion of sidewalk leading up to the intersection of the Royal Mile have been left out of action by the project.

People on foot going to and from the an adjacent district and another locale have been forced one after another into a tight, enclosed passage.

A dining establishment Ondine departed from the building and transferred to St Andrews in Fife in 2024.

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

It is also hosts popular eatery Pizza Express – which has displayed large notices on the structure to notify customers it is open for business.

Delayed Plans

An update to the council's transport and environment committee in early this year stated that the process of "uncovering" the exterior would begin in February, with a complete dismantling by the end of the year.

But the firm has said that is incorrect, pointing to "exceptionally intricate" construction issues for the setback.

"We expect starting to remove parts of the structure near the finish of 2026, with further improvements proceeding afterwards," the company commented.

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

Community and Heritage Concerns

Rowan Brown, lead of conservation group the a local association, said the work had reinforced the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for construction projects.

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

She said: "It causes the walking experience in that section really difficult.

"It is puzzling why there is not an effort to integrate it into the urban landscape or develop something more artistic and avant-garde."

Project Response

A project spokesperson said work on "ideas to enhance the appearance the site" was continuing.

They stated: "We acknowledge the frustrations felt by nearby inhabitants and shops.

"This constitutes a extended and complex process, reflecting the difficulty and size of the remedial work required, however we are committed to finishing this vital work as soon as is possible."

The official said the council would "maintain pressure" on those responsible to wrap up the project.

She said: "This scaffolding has been a problem for years, and I share the exasperation of residents and local businesses over these continued delays.

"Nonetheless, I also appreciate that the contractor has a obligation to make the building safe and that this repair has turned out to be exceptionally difficult."