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On one of the most popular thoroughfares in the centre of Scotland's historic capital sits a imposing sight of construction framework.

For five years, the establishment on the junction of a key historic street and the adjacent bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Visitors find no available accommodations, foot traffic are squeezed through tight corridors, and establishments have abandoned the building.

Remedial work started in 2020 and was only expected to last a brief duration, but now exasperated residents have been told the scaffolding could persist until 2027.

Prolonged Deadlines

The construction firm, the lead company, says it will be "towards the end" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the scaffold can be taken down.

A local authority figure a council official has labeled it a "eyesore" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is happening with this apparently perpetual project?

Background Issues

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

Figures from when it first opened under the a designer banner, put the development expense at about thirty million pounds.

Work on the building got underway soon after the start of the Covid pandemic with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

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

People on foot going to and from the an adjacent district and a neighboring street have been forced in a line into a tight, enclosed passage.

An eatery Ondine quit the building and relocated to another city in 2024.

In a comment, its owners said construction activity had compelled them to modify the restaurant's appearance, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also home to popular eatery Pizza Express – which has placed large signs on the structure to remind customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

An update to the council's transport and environment committee in January this year suggested that the process of "revealing" the frontage would begin in February, with a complete dismantling by the year's end.

But the firm has said that will not happen, referencing "extremely complex" building problems for the delay.

"We anticipate starting to remove parts of the scaffold close to the conclusion of the coming year, with additional work continuing thereafter," the company commented.

"Efforts are underway closely with all parties to ensure we deliver an better site for the community."

Community and Heritage Concerns

Rowan Brown, director of heritage body the a local association, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for construction projects.

She said those involved in the project had a "obligation to the public" to lessen disturbance and should incorporate the work into the city's streetscape.

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

"It is puzzling why there is not an effort to bring it into the street view or create something more creative and avant-garde."

Continued Work

A official statement said work on "measures to beautify the site" was continuing.

They stated: "We understand the annoyances felt by the community and businesses.

"This constitutes a lengthy and protracted process, reflecting the complexity and size of the restoration required, however we are committed to concluding this vital work as soon as is practicable."

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

She said: "This scaffolding has been a negative presence for years, and I share the exasperation of locals and local businesses over these persistent hold-ups.

"Nonetheless, I also recognize that the contractor has a obligation to make the building secure and that this repair has proved to be hugely complex."