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Along the most frequented avenues in the core of Scotland's historic capital stands a giant structure of construction framework.

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

Visitors cannot book rooms, walkers are directed through confined passages, and commercial tenants have vacated the building.

Restoration efforts began in 2020 and was initially projected to last a brief duration, but now frustrated residents have been told the framework could stay in place until 2027.

Further Delays

The construction firm, the primary firm, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the first sections of the structure can be removed.

Edinburgh's council leader a council official has called it a "blight" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is happening with this notoriously protracted project?

A Problematic Past

The sizeable hotel was built on the site of the old Lothian Regional Council offices in 2009.

Projections from when it initially debuted under the a fashion-branded banner, put the development expense at about a significant sum.

Remedial efforts began soon after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

Part of the road and a significant portion of footpath leading up to the corner of the historic street have been closed off by the development.

People on foot going to and from the a nearby area and Victoria Terrace have been compelled in a line into a confined, sheltered corridor.

A dining establishment a popular spot departed from the building and transferred to a different location in 2024.

In a comment, its management said the ongoing project had obliged them to alter the restaurant's facade, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also home to restaurant chain Pizza Express – which has hung large signs on the framework to remind customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

An report to the council's transport and environment committee in the start of the year stated that the process of "revealing" the frontage would commence in February, with a complete dismantling by the year's end.

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

"We anticipate starting to remove portions of the structure close to the conclusion of next year, with further improvements continuing thereafter," the company commented.

"We are collaborating closely with all parties to ensure we deliver an improved site for the local area."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, director of preservation association the an advocacy group, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for development.

She said those working on the project had a "obligation to the public" to minimise disruption and should blend the work into the city's design.

She said: "It renders the pedestrian experience in that part of town exceptionally challenging.

"I don't understand why there is not some attempt to incorporate it within the street view or produce something more artistic and cutting-edge."

Continued Work

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

They stated: "We recognize the frustrations felt by local residents and shops.

"This has been a extended and complex process, demonstrating the intricacy and magnitude of the restoration required, however we are focused on concluding this vital work as soon as is possible."

The council leader said the city would "maintain pressure" on those involved to complete the project.

She said: "This structure has been a problem for years, and I echo the exasperation of residents and local businesses over these persistent hold-ups.

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