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Positioned on the most popular thoroughfares in the core of Scotland's ancient city stands a imposing sight of construction framework.

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

Travellers are unable to reserve stays, foot traffic are directed through tight corridors, and establishments have left the building.

Remedial work began in 2020 and was initially projected to last a short period, but now frustrated residents have been told the framework could remain until 2027.

Further Delays

The main contractor, the primary firm, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the frame can be removed.

Edinburgh's council leader a council official has labeled it a "negative feature" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is going on with this apparently perpetual project?

Background Issues

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

Figures from when it initially debuted under the a fashion-branded banner, put the cost of construction at about a significant sum.

Remedial efforts got underway shortly after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself closed to guests since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a large section of sidewalk leading up to the corner of the Royal Mile have been rendered unusable 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.

A dining establishment a popular spot departed from the building and transferred to St Andrews in Fife in 2024.

In a release, its owners said construction activity had forced them to change the restaurant's facade, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also hosts popular eatery a pizza restaurant – which has displayed large banners on the scaffold to notify customers it is open for business.

Missed Deadlines

An report to the a city committee in the start of the year suggested that the process of "exposing" the façade would commence in February, with a complete dismantling by the end of the year.

But the contractor has said that will not happen, pointing to "extremely complex" structural challenges for the setback.

"We anticipate starting to take down sections of the structure near the finish of next year, with subsequent enhancements proceeding afterwards," the company commented.

"We are working closely with everyone involved to ensure we create an improved site for the local area."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, lead of heritage body the Cockburn Association, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "protracted" for development.

She said those working on the project had a "civic responsibility" to minimise disturbance and should blend the work into the city's aesthetic.

She said: "It renders the experience for those on foot in that part of town exceptionally challenging.

"I don't understand why there is not some attempt to bring it into the street view or create something more aesthetic and cutting-edge."

Project Response

A project spokesperson said work on "solutions to aesthetically improve the site" was ongoing.

They continued: "We acknowledge the frustrations felt by nearby inhabitants and businesses.

"This constitutes a extended and complex process, reflecting the intricacy and size of the restoration required, however we are focused on concluding this vital work as soon as is practicable."

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

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

"That said, I also recognize that the company has a obligation to make the building secure and that this repair has turned out to be exceptionally difficult."