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Positioned on the most frequented avenues in the centre of Scotland's historic capital looms a imposing sight of metal poles and platforms.

For five years, the establishment on the corner of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and a major bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

Visitors are unable to reserve stays, foot traffic are funneled through tight corridors, and businesses have left the building.

Restoration efforts started in 2020 and was initially projected to last a short period, but now exasperated residents have been told the framework could remain until 2027.

Prolonged Deadlines

The main contractor, the main contractor, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the first sections of the frame can be removed.

Edinburgh's council leader a city representative has described it as a "negative feature" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is going on with this apparently perpetual project?

A Problematic Past

The 136-bedroom hotel was developed on the site of the old Lothian Regional Council offices in 2009.

Figures from when it first opened under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the build cost at about thirty million pounds.

Remedial efforts got underway soon after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

Part of the road and a sizable stretch of pavement leading up to the junction of the tourist drag have been left out of action by the project.

Walkers going to and from the Lawnmarket and another locale have been required one after another into a confined, sheltered corridor.

An eatery a well-known restaurant departed from the building and relocated to St Andrews in Fife in 2024.

In a release, its operators said the ongoing project had compelled them to modify the restaurant's look, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also home to dining franchise a chain – which has displayed large banners on the scaffold to notify customers it is operating as usual.

Slipped Schedules

An communication to the a city committee in January this year suggested that the process of "revealing" the exterior would start in February, with a total takedown by the close of the year.

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

"We anticipate starting to take down portions of the framework towards the end of next year, with subsequent enhancements ongoing after that," a statement read.

"Efforts are underway closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we create an better site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A conservation official, director of conservation group the a local association, said the work had reinforced the city's reputation of being "slow" for construction projects.

She said those involved in the project had a "civic responsibility" to lessen disturbance 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.

"I don't understand why there is not a try to bring it into the street view or create something more aesthetic and cutting-edge."

Project Response

A company representative said work on "measures to aesthetically improve the site" was continuing.

They continued: "We understand the frustrations felt by local residents and enterprises.

"This represents a lengthy and protracted process, highlighting the difficulty and size of the restoration required, however we are committed to completing this essential work as soon as is feasible."

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 blight for years, and I echo the exasperation of inhabitants and nearby shops over these continued delays.

"That said, I also recognize that the company has a obligation to make the building secure and that this restoration has been exceptionally difficult."