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Along the most frequented avenues in the heart of Scotland's historic capital sits a monolith of metal poles and platforms.

For five years, a prominent hotel on the corner of a key historic street and George IV Bridge has been a covered eyesore.

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

Repair work started in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a short period, but now fed-up residents have been told the framework could remain until 2027.

Extended Timelines

The construction firm, the main contractor, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the first sections of the frame can be dismantled.

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

What is transpiring with this notoriously protracted project?

A Troubled History

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

Estimates from when it originally launched under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the development expense at about £30m.

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

A lane of traffic and a sizable stretch of footpath leading up to the corner of the tourist drag have been closed off by the work.

Walkers going to and from the an adjacent district and a neighboring street have been required single-file into a tight, enclosed passage.

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

In a comment, its owners said building work had compelled them to alter the restaurant's appearance, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also the location of popular eatery a pizza restaurant – which has displayed large signs on the structure to remind customers it is open for business.

Delayed Plans

An communication to the a city committee in early this year stated that the process of "uncovering" the façade would start in February, with a total takedown by the close of the year.

But the firm has said that is incorrect, citing "exceptionally intricate" structural challenges for the postponement.

"We anticipate starting to dismantle parts of the structure close to the conclusion of next year, with subsequent enhancements proceeding afterwards," the company commented.

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

Local and Conservation Frustration

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

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

She said: "It is making the experience for those on foot in that area of the city very hard.

"It is puzzling why there is not some attempt to integrate it into the streetscape or create something more aesthetic and cutting-edge."

Continued Work

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

They added: "We acknowledge the irritations felt by nearby inhabitants and enterprises.

"This constitutes a long and drawn-out process, demonstrating the intricacy and magnitude of the restoration required, however we are committed to concluding this essential work as soon as is practicable."

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

She said: "This structure has been a blight for years, and I share the annoyance of locals and nearby shops over these persistent hold-ups.

"Nonetheless, I also acknowledge that the firm has a obligation to make the building safe and that this restoration has been exceptionally difficult."