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Positioned on the most popular thoroughfares in the core of Scotland's ancient city stands a imposing sight of metal poles and platforms.

For five years, the establishment on the corner of a key historic street and George IV Bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

Visitors cannot book rooms, foot traffic are directed through tight corridors, and establishments have left the building.

Repair work commenced in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a brief duration, but now frustrated residents have been told the framework could persist until 2027.

Further Delays

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the main contractor, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the first sections of the scaffold can be dismantled.

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

What is transpiring with this notoriously protracted project?

A Problematic Past

The sizeable hotel was constructed on the site of the previous regional authority offices in 2009.

Projections from when it originally launched under the a fashion-branded banner, put the cost of construction at about thirty million pounds.

Remedial efforts got underway not long after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a large section of footpath leading up to the intersection of the historic street have been rendered unusable by the development.

People on foot going to and from the a nearby area and another locale have been compelled in a line into a tight, enclosed passage.

A dining establishment a popular spot left the building and transferred to a different location in 2024.

In a comment, its owners said construction activity had compelled them to modify the restaurant's look, adding that "guests were entitled to a superior experience".

It is also the location of popular eatery a pizza restaurant – which has hung large notices on the scaffold to inform customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

An update to the council's transport and environment committee in January this year stated that the process of "revealing" the exterior would start in February, with a total takedown by the year's end.

But SRM has said that is incorrect, pointing to "highly complicated" construction issues for the delay.

"We expect starting to remove sections of the structure towards the end of 2026, with subsequent enhancements ongoing after that," the company commented.

"We are working closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we create an enhanced site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A conservation official, lead of heritage body the a local association, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "protracted" for urban works.

She said those involved in the project had a "public duty" to reduce disruption and should integrate the work into the city's aesthetic.

She said: "It renders the walking experience in that area of the city exceptionally challenging.

"It is puzzling why there is not an effort to incorporate it within the street view or produce something more aesthetic and innovative."

Project Response

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

They continued: "We acknowledge the annoyances felt by nearby inhabitants and businesses.

"This has been a lengthy and protracted process, highlighting the intricacy and magnitude of the repair work required, however we are focused on concluding this vital work as soon as is feasible."

Ms Meagher said the local authority would "maintain pressure" on those responsible to complete the project.

She said: "This framework has been a blight for years, and I understand the annoyance of locals and area enterprises over these continued delays.

"Nonetheless, I also recognize that the company has a obligation to make the building safe and that this repair has proved to be hugely complex."