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Along the most frequented avenues in the core of Scotland's historic capital looms a imposing sight of metal poles and platforms.

For half a decade, the establishment on the intersection of a key historic street and a major bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

Travellers are unable to reserve stays, walkers are directed through narrow walkways, and establishments have left the building.

Repair work started in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a brief duration, but now fed-up residents have been told the scaffolding could persist until 2027.

Prolonged Deadlines

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the primary firm, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the first sections of the structure can be taken down.

A local authority figure Jane Meagher has labeled it a "eyesore" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is going on with this apparently perpetual project?

A Problematic Past

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

Projections from when it initially debuted under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the build cost at about a significant sum.

Remedial efforts got underway soon after the start of the Covid pandemic with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

Part of the road and a significant portion of sidewalk leading up to the junction of the historic street have been rendered unusable by the work.

Walkers going to and from the an adjacent district and Victoria Terrace have been forced single-file into a tight, enclosed passage.

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

In a statement, its operators said the ongoing project had forced them to alter the restaurant's look, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also hosts dining franchise Pizza Express – which has displayed large signs on the framework to inform customers it is still open.

Missed Deadlines

An communication to the council's transport and environment committee in January this year stated that the process of "uncovering" the façade would commence in February, with a complete dismantling by the end of the year.

But SRM has said that is not the case, referencing "highly complicated" construction issues for the setback.

"We anticipate starting to take down parts of the structure close to the conclusion of the coming year, with further improvements continuing thereafter," they said.

"We are collaborating closely with all parties to ensure we provide an improved site for the community."

Community and Heritage Concerns

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

She said those associated with the project had a "public duty" to reduce inconvenience and should incorporate the work into the city's aesthetic.

She said: "It is making the walking experience in that part of town very hard.

"It is puzzling why there is not a try to bring it into the street view or produce something more creative and innovative."

Project Response

A official statement said work on "solutions to enhance the appearance the site" was ongoing.

They added: "We understand the irritations felt by nearby inhabitants and businesses.

"This represents a extended and complex process, demonstrating the intricacy and size of the remedial work required, however we are focused on concluding this essential work as soon as is practicable."

The official said the council 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 exasperation of locals and nearby shops over these persistent hold-ups.

"However, I also appreciate that the company has a obligation to make the building secure and that this repair has proved to be hugely complex."