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On one of the most popular thoroughfares in the core of Scotland's historic capital stands a imposing sight of metal poles and platforms.

For the past 60 months, the establishment on the junction of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and the adjacent bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

Tourists find no available accommodations, foot traffic are squeezed through tight corridors, and businesses have left the building.

Remedial work commenced in 2020 and was initially projected to last a short period, but now frustrated residents have been told the framework could remain until 2027.

Prolonged Deadlines

The main contractor, the primary firm, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the initial parts of the structure can be taken down.

The city's political leader Jane Meagher has described it as a "eyesore" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is happening with this seemingly endless project?

A Troubled History

The establishment with 136 rooms was constructed 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 development expense at about thirty million pounds.

Construction activity began soon after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

Part of the road and a sizable stretch of footpath leading up to the junction of the Royal Mile have been rendered unusable by the project.

Pedestrians going to and from the a nearby area and Victoria Terrace have been forced in a line into a narrow, covered walkway.

Seafood restaurant a popular spot quit the building and relocated to St Andrews in Fife in 2024.

In a comment, its management said building work had obliged them to modify the restaurant's facade, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also home to dining franchise a chain – which has placed large signs on the structure to notify customers it is operating as usual.

Missed Deadlines

An report to the a local authority committee in January this year indicated that the process of "exposing" the frontage would commence in February, with a complete dismantling by the end of the year.

But the firm has said that is not the case, referencing "exceptionally intricate" structural challenges for the setback.

"We project starting to remove portions of the structure towards the end of 2026, with additional work proceeding afterwards," a statement read.

"Efforts are underway closely with everyone involved to ensure we provide an better site for the community."

Community and Heritage Concerns

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

She said those working on the project had a "civic responsibility" to lessen inconvenience and should integrate the work into the city's design.

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

"It is puzzling why there is not a try to integrate it into the street view or produce something more creative and cutting-edge."

Project Response

A company representative said work on "measures to beautify the site" was in progress.

They stated: "We understand the irritations felt by the community and shops.

"This has been a lengthy and protracted process, highlighting the difficulty and magnitude of the repair work required, however we are dedicated to finishing this essential work as soon as is practicable."

The official said the local authority would "continue to put pressure" on those responsible to wrap up the project.

She said: "This structure has been a negative presence for years, and I understand the annoyance of inhabitants and local businesses over these persistent hold-ups.

"Nonetheless, I also recognize that the company has a duty to make the building structurally sound and that this remediation has been hugely complex."