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On one of the most frequented avenues in the centre of Scotland's historic capital sits a giant structure of construction framework.

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

Visitors cannot book rooms, pedestrians are funneled through confined passages, and businesses have vacated the building.

Restoration efforts began in 2020 and was only expected to last a short period, but now frustrated residents have been told the scaffolding could persist until 2027.

Further Delays

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

The city's political leader a city representative has called it a "eyesore" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "very troublesome".

What is going on with this seemingly endless project?

Background Issues

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

Estimates from when it originally launched under the a fashion-branded banner, put the cost of construction at about £30m.

Work on the building started soon after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself shut for business since 2022.

A section of the street and a sizable stretch of pavement leading up to the junction of the historic street have been closed off by the work.

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

A dining establishment Ondine departed from the building and transferred to St Andrews in Fife in 2024.

In a release, its operators said construction activity had obliged them to alter the restaurant's appearance, adding that "guests were entitled to a superior experience".

It is also hosts popular eatery a pizza restaurant – which has hung large banners on the structure to remind customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

An update to the a city committee in early this year stated that the process of "exposing" the frontage would start in February, with a full removal by the year's end.

But SRM has said that is incorrect, referencing "exceptionally intricate" building problems for the delay.

"We expect starting to dismantle sections of the framework close to the conclusion of the coming year, with additional work proceeding afterwards," the company commented.

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

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, head of heritage body the Cockburn Association, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for development.

She said those associated with the project had a "obligation to the public" to minimise disturbance and should blend the work into the city's design.

She said: "It renders the pedestrian experience in that area of the city really difficult.

"It is puzzling why there is not some attempt to integrate it into the urban landscape or develop something more aesthetic and innovative."

Project Response

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

They continued: "We recognize the frustrations felt by the community and enterprises.

"This constitutes a lengthy and protracted process, demonstrating the intricacy and size of the remedial work required, however we are focused on finishing this vital work as soon as is feasible."

The council leader said the council would "maintain pressure" on those accountable to finish the project.

She said: "This structure has been a problem for years, and I echo the exasperation of inhabitants and area enterprises over these continued delays.

"However, I also recognize that the firm has a responsibility to make the building secure and that this repair has been hugely complex."