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On one of the most popular thoroughfares in the core of Scotland's historic capital sits a imposing sight of scaffolding.

For the past 60 months, a prominent hotel on the intersection of a key historic street and the adjacent bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Visitors cannot book rooms, foot traffic are funneled through tight corridors, and establishments have left the building.

Repair work commenced in 2020 and was initially projected to last a short period, but now frustrated residents have been told the framework could stay in place until 2027.

Further Delays

The main contractor, the primary firm, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the first sections of the scaffold can be dismantled.

Edinburgh's council leader a city representative has called it a "eyesore" on the area, while preservation advocates say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is transpiring with this apparently perpetual project?

A Problematic Past

The 136-bedroom hotel was developed on the site of the old local government offices in 2009.

Figures from when it originally launched under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the cost of construction at about thirty million pounds.

Remedial efforts began not long after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

Part of the road and a large section of footpath leading up to the intersection of the tourist drag have been left out of action by the work.

People on foot going to and from the Lawnmarket and Victoria Terrace have been compelled one after another into a narrow, covered walkway.

A dining establishment a popular spot left the building and relocated to a different location in 2024.

In a release, its operators said building work had obliged them to modify the restaurant's facade, adding that "patrons merited more".

It is also hosts restaurant chain a pizza restaurant – which has placed large notices on the structure to notify customers it is operating as usual.

Slipped Schedules

An report to the council's transport and environment committee in January this year suggested that the process of "uncovering" the exterior would begin in February, with a total takedown by the end of the year.

But the firm has said that is incorrect, citing "highly complicated" building problems for the setback.

"We expect starting to remove portions of the scaffold close to the conclusion of 2026, with additional work ongoing after that," they said.

"Efforts are underway closely with all parties to ensure we provide an enhanced site for the public."

Local and Conservation Frustration

Rowan Brown, lead of preservation association the a local association, said the work had reinforced the city's reputation of being "slow" for development.

She said those involved in the project had a "obligation to the public" to minimise disturbance and should incorporate the work into the city's design.

She said: "It is making the pedestrian experience in that part of town really difficult.

"It is puzzling why there is not a try to integrate it into the urban landscape or create something more artistic and innovative."

Ongoing Efforts

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

They stated: "We acknowledge the frustrations felt by local residents and enterprises.

"This constitutes a long and drawn-out process, reflecting the complexity 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 local authority would "continue to put pressure" on those involved to finish the project.

She said: "This scaffolding has been a blight for years, and I understand the frustration of residents and local businesses over these continued delays.

"That said, I also appreciate that the company has a duty to make the building secure and that this restoration has been hugely complex."