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Along the most popular thoroughfares in the heart of Scotland's ancient city stands a imposing sight of scaffolding.

For five years, Radisson's G&V Hotel on the intersection of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and a major bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Travellers find no available accommodations, foot traffic are directed through confined passages, and establishments have left the building.

Repair work commenced in 2020 and was initially projected to last a few months, but now exasperated residents have been told the structure could remain until 2027.

Further Delays

The main contractor, the main contractor, says it will be "towards the end" of 2026 before the first sections of the frame can be taken down.

The city's political leader Jane Meagher has labeled it a "blight" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is going on with this seemingly endless project?

Background Issues

The establishment with 136 rooms was constructed on the site of the former local government offices in 2009.

Estimates from when it initially debuted under the a fashion-branded banner, put the cost of construction at about a significant sum.

Construction activity started shortly after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

A section of the street and a significant portion of footpath leading up to the corner of the tourist drag have been left out of action by the work.

Walkers going to and from the Lawnmarket and another locale have been compelled in a line into a tight, enclosed passage.

An eatery a popular spot quit the building and moved to another city in 2024.

In a release, its management said building work had compelled them to change the restaurant's appearance, adding that "guests were entitled to a superior experience".

It is also hosts dining franchise a chain – which has displayed large signs on the framework to remind customers it is open for business.

Slipped Schedules

An update to the a local authority committee in early this year suggested that the process of "uncovering" the exterior would commence in February, with a full removal by the year's end.

But the contractor has said that will not happen, referencing "highly complicated" construction issues for the setback.

"We anticipate starting to take down portions of the scaffold near the finish of the coming year, with subsequent enhancements ongoing after that," a statement read.

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

Local and Conservation Frustration

A conservation official, lead of preservation association the an advocacy group, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "protracted" for urban works.

She said those involved in the project had a "public duty" to minimise inconvenience and should integrate the work into the city's design.

She said: "It renders the experience for those on foot in that area of the city exceptionally challenging.

"It is perplexing why there is not a try to integrate it into the urban landscape or develop something more aesthetic and avant-garde."

Ongoing Efforts

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

They stated: "We recognize the irritations felt by nearby inhabitants and enterprises.

"This has been a long and drawn-out process, reflecting the intricacy and magnitude of the repair work required, however we are committed to completing this vital work as soon as is practicable."

The council leader said the city would "keep applying pressure" on those responsible to finish the project.

She said: "This framework has been a negative presence for years, and I share the annoyance of residents and nearby shops over these persistent hold-ups.

"That said, I also acknowledge that the firm has a obligation to make the building safe and that this repair has turned out to be exceptionally difficult."