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On one of the most frequented avenues in the heart of Scotland's historic capital stands a giant structure of metal poles and platforms.

For half a decade, the establishment on the intersection of a key historic street and George IV Bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Travellers cannot book rooms, pedestrians are funneled through tight corridors, and establishments have vacated the building.

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

Prolonged Deadlines

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the main contractor, says it will be "towards the end" of 2026 before the first sections of the structure can be removed.

A local authority figure a council official has called it a "eyesore" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is happening with this apparently perpetual project?

Background Issues

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

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

Work on the building got underway not long after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a sizable stretch of sidewalk leading up to the corner of the tourist drag have been left out of action by the project.

People on foot going to and from the an adjacent district and a neighboring street have been compelled single-file into a narrow, covered walkway.

Seafood restaurant a well-known restaurant quit the building and transferred to a different location in 2024.

In a statement, its operators said building work had obliged them to modify the restaurant's look, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also home to dining franchise a pizza restaurant – which has displayed large banners on the framework to notify customers it is still open.

Missed Deadlines

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

But the contractor has said that is not the case, pointing to "extremely complex" building problems for the delay.

"We project starting to remove parts of the framework near the finish of next year, with additional work continuing thereafter," they said.

"Efforts are underway closely with all parties to ensure we deliver an enhanced site for the local area."

Local and Conservation Frustration

Rowan Brown, director of conservation group the Cockburn Association, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "slow" for construction projects.

She said those associated with the project had a "public duty" to reduce disturbance and should integrate the work into the city's aesthetic.

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

"It is puzzling why there is not some attempt to incorporate it within the streetscape or create something more creative and innovative."

Ongoing Efforts

A company representative said work on "solutions to enhance the appearance the site" was continuing.

They added: "We acknowledge the frustrations felt by the community and businesses.

"This has been a extended and complex process, reflecting the difficulty and size of the repair work required, however we are dedicated to finishing this necessary work as soon as is possible."

Ms Meagher said the city would "continue to put pressure" on those responsible to complete the project.

She said: "This framework has been a negative presence for years, and I echo the exasperation of locals and local businesses over these persistent hold-ups.

"However, I also recognize that the company has a obligation to make the building secure and that this restoration has proved to be hugely complex."