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Positioned on the busiest tourist streets in the core of Scotland's historic capital looms a imposing sight of construction framework.

For half a decade, a prominent hotel on the junction of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and a major bridge has been a shrouded blight.

Travellers 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 brief duration, but now exasperated residents have been told the framework could remain until 2027.

Extended Timelines

The main contractor, the lead company, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the frame can be removed.

Edinburgh's council leader a council official has described it as a "blight" on the area, while preservation advocates say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is transpiring with this seemingly endless project?

Background Issues

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

Figures from when it originally launched under the a fashion-branded banner, put the cost of construction at about a significant sum.

Work on the building got underway shortly after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a large section of pavement leading up to the corner of the historic street have been rendered unusable by the work.

Pedestrians going to and from the Lawnmarket and a neighboring street have been required in a line into a tight, enclosed passage.

An eatery Ondine quit the building and moved to another city in 2024.

In a comment, its operators said building work had compelled them to change the restaurant's look, adding that "customers deserved better".

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

Delayed Plans

An communication to the a local authority committee in early this year stated that the process of "uncovering" the frontage would start in February, with a full removal by the end of the year.

But the contractor has said that is not the case, citing "exceptionally intricate" construction issues for the delay.

"We anticipate starting to dismantle portions of the structure close to the conclusion of 2026, with further improvements ongoing after that," a statement read.

"We are working closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we provide an improved site for the local area."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, head of preservation association the an advocacy group, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "protracted" for construction projects.

She said those involved in the project had a "public duty" to minimise disruption and should blend the work into the city's streetscape.

She said: "It causes the pedestrian experience in that part of town really difficult.

"It is puzzling why there is not a try to bring it into the street view or produce something more aesthetic and avant-garde."

Continued Work

A project spokesperson said work on "solutions to enhance the appearance the site" was ongoing.

They stated: "We acknowledge the frustrations felt by local residents and shops.

"This constitutes a extended and complex process, highlighting the complexity and magnitude of the repair work required, however we are committed to finishing this essential work as soon as is possible."

The official said the city would "keep applying pressure" on those accountable to wrap up the project.

She said: "This structure has been a problem for years, and I share the exasperation of inhabitants and nearby shops over these ongoing postponements.

"However, I also recognize that the firm has a duty to make the building structurally sound and that this restoration has proved to be exceptionally difficult."