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On one of the busiest tourist streets in the centre of Scotland's historic capital stands a imposing sight of construction framework.

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

Tourists are unable to reserve stays, walkers are directed through tight corridors, and establishments have abandoned the building.

Remedial work began in 2020 and was only expected to last a brief duration, but now frustrated residents have been told the structure could remain until 2027.

Extended Timelines

The main contractor, the main contractor, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the initial parts of the frame can be removed.

A local authority figure a city representative has called it a "negative feature" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "very troublesome".

What is transpiring with this notoriously protracted project?

Background Issues

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

Figures from when it initially debuted under the a designer banner, put the build cost at about £30m.

Work on the building began shortly after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself shut for business since 2022.

Part of the road and a large section of pavement leading up to the corner of the tourist drag have been left out of action by the project.

People on foot going to and from the a nearby area and Victoria Terrace have been forced single-file into a tight, enclosed passage.

Seafood restaurant a popular spot quit the building and transferred to a different location in 2024.

In a comment, its management said building work had forced them to alter the restaurant's look, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also home to restaurant chain a chain – which has displayed large notices on the scaffold to remind customers it is operating as usual.

Missed Deadlines

An report to the a city committee in the start of the year stated that the process of "uncovering" the façade would begin in February, with a total takedown by the end of the year.

But the contractor has said that will not happen, referencing "exceptionally intricate" structural challenges for the postponement.

"We expect starting to take down sections of the framework close to the conclusion of 2026, with further improvements proceeding afterwards," a statement read.

"Efforts are underway closely with everyone involved to ensure we provide an better site for the public."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, lead of conservation group the an advocacy group, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "slow" for urban works.

She said those involved in the project had a "civic responsibility" to reduce disruption and should blend the work into the city's design.

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

"I don't understand why there is not a try to bring it into the streetscape or create something more aesthetic and innovative."

Project Response

A project spokesperson said work on "measures to enhance the appearance the site" was in progress.

They added: "We recognize the frustrations felt by the community and enterprises.

"This represents a lengthy and protracted process, demonstrating the intricacy and scale of the repair work required, however we are dedicated to completing this vital work as soon as is possible."

The council leader said the local authority would "maintain pressure" on those involved to finish the project.

She said: "This structure has been a negative presence for years, and I understand the exasperation of locals and area enterprises over these continued delays.

"Nonetheless, I also appreciate that the contractor has a responsibility to make the building secure and that this repair has turned out to be exceptionally difficult."