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On one of the busiest tourist streets in the heart of Scotland's ancient city looms a imposing sight of construction framework.

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

Travellers are unable to reserve stays, foot traffic are funneled through confined passages, and businesses have vacated the building.

Restoration efforts began in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a short period, but now fed-up residents have been told the structure could remain until 2027.

Extended Timelines

The construction firm, the main contractor, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the frame can be dismantled.

A local authority figure a council official has called it a "negative feature" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is happening with this notoriously protracted project?

Background Issues

The 136-bedroom hotel was developed on the site of the previous regional authority 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 got underway shortly after the start of the Covid pandemic with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a sizable stretch of pavement leading up to the corner of the tourist drag have been closed off by the project.

Pedestrians going to and from the an adjacent district and Victoria Terrace have been forced one after another into a narrow, covered walkway.

A dining establishment a popular spot quit the building and moved to a different location in 2024.

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

It is also home to restaurant chain a pizza restaurant – which has placed large signs on the structure to inform customers it is open for business.

Missed Deadlines

An communication to the a city committee in early this year suggested that the process of "revealing" the exterior would begin in February, with a complete dismantling by the close of the year.

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

"We expect starting to dismantle sections of the structure towards the end of next year, with further improvements ongoing after that," the company commented.

"We are collaborating closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we deliver an better site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, director of conservation group the a local association, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "protracted" for urban works.

She said those working on the project had a "civic responsibility" to lessen disturbance and should blend the work into the city's aesthetic.

She said: "It is making the pedestrian experience in that part of town really difficult.

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

Ongoing Efforts

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

They continued: "We acknowledge the annoyances felt by local residents and shops.

"This constitutes a extended and complex process, demonstrating the complexity and scale of the restoration required, however we are dedicated to finishing this essential work as soon as is possible."

The official said the city would "maintain pressure" on those responsible to wrap up the project.

She said: "This framework has been a blight for years, and I echo the frustration of locals and nearby shops over these continued delays.

"That said, I also appreciate that the contractor has a responsibility to make the building safe and that this repair has been exceptionally difficult."