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On one of the most popular thoroughfares in the core of Scotland's ancient city sits a giant structure of scaffolding.

For half a decade, Radisson's G&V Hotel on the junction of the famous Royal Mile and the adjacent bridge has been a covered eyesore.

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

Restoration efforts commenced in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a brief duration, but now exasperated residents have been told the framework could persist until 2027.

Prolonged Deadlines

The main contractor, the lead company, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the first sections of the scaffold can be removed.

Edinburgh's council leader Jane Meagher has described it as a "negative feature" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "very troublesome".

What is happening with this seemingly endless project?

Background Issues

The sizeable hotel was built on the site of the old regional authority offices in 2009.

Figures from when it originally launched under the a fashion-branded banner, put the development expense at about thirty million pounds.

Work on the building began not long after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself shut for business since 2022.

Part of the road and a significant portion of pavement leading up to the corner of the Royal Mile have been left out of action by the work.

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

A dining establishment Ondine quit the building and relocated to St Andrews in Fife in 2024.

In a statement, its owners said construction activity had forced them to modify the restaurant's look, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also the location of restaurant chain Pizza Express – which has hung large banners on the structure to inform customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

An update to the a local authority committee in the start of the year suggested that the process of "uncovering" the exterior would begin in February, with a total takedown by the close of the year.

But the firm has said that will not happen, referencing "exceptionally intricate" building problems for the setback.

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

"Efforts are underway closely with all parties to ensure we provide an improved site for the local area."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, 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 working on the project had a "obligation to the public" to reduce disruption and should incorporate the work into the city's design.

She said: "It causes the experience for those on foot in that part of town very hard.

"It is perplexing why there is not some attempt to incorporate it within the urban landscape or produce something more creative and cutting-edge."

Project Response

A company representative said work on "ideas to aesthetically improve the site" was ongoing.

They stated: "We recognize the frustrations felt by nearby inhabitants and businesses.

"This has been a lengthy and protracted process, demonstrating the intricacy and size of the restoration required, however we are committed to finishing this essential work as soon as is practicable."

Ms Meagher said the city would "keep applying pressure" on those responsible to wrap up the project.

She said: "This scaffolding has been a negative presence for years, and I echo the annoyance of inhabitants and local businesses over these continued delays.

"Nonetheless, I also acknowledge that the contractor has a responsibility to make the building structurally sound and that this repair has proved to be extremely complicated."