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On one of the most frequented avenues in the centre of Scotland's historic capital looms a monolith of construction framework.

For half a decade, the establishment on the junction of a key historic street and a major bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Visitors find no available accommodations, walkers are funneled through tight corridors, and businesses 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 scaffolding could remain until 2027.

Extended Timelines

The construction firm, the lead company, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the initial parts of the frame can be dismantled.

The city's political leader a council official has called it a "eyesore" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "very troublesome".

What is transpiring with this notoriously protracted project?

A Troubled History

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

Estimates from when it first opened under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the cost of construction at about £30m.

Remedial efforts got underway not long after the start of the Covid pandemic with the hotel itself shut for business since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a significant portion of pavement leading up to the intersection of the historic street have been closed off by the work.

People on foot going to and from the a nearby area and a neighboring street have been forced one after another into a narrow, covered walkway.

Seafood restaurant a well-known restaurant departed from the building and relocated to another city in 2024.

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

It is also home to restaurant chain a chain – which has displayed large banners on the structure to notify customers it is open for business.

Missed Deadlines

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

But SRM has said that is not the case, referencing "exceptionally intricate" construction issues for the setback.

"We anticipate starting to take down parts of the framework close to the conclusion of the coming year, with further improvements proceeding afterwards," the company commented.

"We are working closely with all parties to ensure we create an enhanced site for the local area."

Community and Heritage Concerns

A conservation official, lead of heritage body the Cockburn Association, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "protracted" for urban works.

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

She said: "It is making the experience for those on foot in that section exceptionally challenging.

"I don't understand why there is not some attempt to integrate it into the urban landscape or develop something more aesthetic and innovative."

Ongoing Efforts

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

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

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

The council leader said the local authority would "continue to put pressure" on those accountable to wrap up the project.

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

"Nonetheless, I also appreciate that the contractor has a responsibility to make the building safe and that this restoration has proved to be exceptionally difficult."