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On one of the most popular thoroughfares in the centre of Scotland's heritage-rich city centre looms a giant structure of metal poles and platforms.

For half a decade, the establishment on the junction of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and a major bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

Tourists are unable to reserve stays, pedestrians are directed through tight corridors, and commercial tenants have vacated the building.

Restoration efforts started in 2020 and was only expected to last a short period, but now exasperated residents have been told the scaffolding could remain until 2027.

Extended Timelines

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the primary firm, says it will be "towards the end" of 2026 before the initial parts of the structure can be dismantled.

Edinburgh's council leader a council official has labeled it a "eyesore" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is happening with this notoriously protracted project?

Background Issues

The 136-bedroom hotel was built on the site of the previous local government offices in 2009.

Figures from when it first opened under the a fashion-branded banner, put the cost of construction at about thirty million pounds.

Remedial efforts got underway soon after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

Part of the road and a significant portion of pavement leading up to the corner of the historic street have been rendered unusable by the work.

People on foot going to and from the a nearby area and another locale have been compelled one after another into a confined, sheltered corridor.

A dining establishment a popular spot quit the building and moved to St Andrews in Fife in 2024.

In a comment, its management said building work had forced them to modify the restaurant's appearance, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also hosts dining franchise a chain – which has placed large notices on the framework to inform customers it is open for business.

Delayed Plans

An report to the council's transport and environment committee in early this year indicated that the process of "exposing" the frontage would start in February, with a full removal by the end of the year.

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

"We project starting to dismantle sections of the structure near the finish of 2026, with additional work proceeding afterwards," a statement read.

"We are working closely with everyone involved to ensure we deliver an enhanced site for the local area."

Community and Heritage Concerns

Rowan Brown, lead of heritage body the a local association, said the work had reinforced the city's reputation of being "protracted" for development.

She said those associated with the project had a "obligation to the public" to lessen disruption and should integrate the work into the city's design.

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

"It is puzzling why there is not some attempt to bring it into the streetscape or develop something more aesthetic and avant-garde."

Project Response

A official statement said work on "ideas to enhance the appearance the site" was in progress.

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

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

The official said the local authority would "keep applying pressure" on those accountable to complete the project.

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

"Nonetheless, I also recognize that the contractor has a duty to make the building secure and that this repair has proved to be extremely complicated."