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On one of the busiest tourist streets in the heart of Scotland's ancient city looms a imposing sight of construction framework.

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

Tourists are unable to reserve stays, foot traffic are directed through narrow walkways, and establishments have left the building.

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

Further Delays

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

A local authority figure Jane Meagher has labeled it a "blight" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is transpiring with this seemingly endless project?

A Problematic Past

The 136-bedroom hotel was constructed on the site of the old regional authority offices in 2009.

Figures from when it first opened under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the build cost at about a significant sum.

Work on the building started not long after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

Part of the road and a significant portion of sidewalk leading up to the corner of the historic street have been closed off by the work.

Pedestrians going to and from the a nearby area and Victoria Terrace have been required one after another into a tight, enclosed passage.

Seafood restaurant Ondine departed from the building and transferred to a different location in 2024.

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

It is also hosts restaurant chain Pizza Express – which has hung large notices on the framework to remind customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

An communication to the a city committee in January this year indicated that the process of "uncovering" the exterior would commence in February, with a full removal by the year's end.

But SRM has said that will not happen, citing "extremely complex" building problems for the postponement.

"We project starting to dismantle portions of the structure towards the end of next year, with subsequent enhancements proceeding afterwards," a statement read.

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

Community and Heritage Concerns

Rowan Brown, lead of preservation association the a local association, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for construction projects.

She said those working on the project had a "public duty" to minimise inconvenience and should blend the work into the city's design.

She said: "It renders the experience for those on foot in that part of town really difficult.

"It is puzzling why there is not a try to bring it into the urban landscape or develop something more aesthetic and cutting-edge."

Ongoing Efforts

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

They added: "We acknowledge the irritations felt by the community and shops.

"This has been a long and drawn-out process, reflecting the intricacy and magnitude of the repair work required, however we are focused on finishing this vital work as soon as is possible."

The council leader said the council would "continue to put pressure" on those involved to wrap up the project.

She said: "This structure has been a negative presence for years, and I echo the annoyance of inhabitants and local businesses over these ongoing postponements.

"However, I also acknowledge that the contractor has a responsibility to make the building secure and that this remediation has been extremely complicated."