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Positioned on the most frequented avenues in the centre of Scotland's historic capital looms a imposing sight of scaffolding.

For half a decade, Radisson's G&V Hotel on the corner of the famous Royal Mile and a major bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

Tourists cannot book rooms, pedestrians are directed through narrow walkways, and establishments have left the building.

Repair work commenced in 2020 and was only expected to last a few months, but now fed-up residents have been told the structure could remain until 2027.

Further Delays

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the lead company, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the initial parts of the structure can be taken down.

The city's political leader a city representative has called it a "eyesore" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "very troublesome".

What is transpiring with this seemingly endless project?

A Troubled History

The sizeable hotel was built on the site of the previous local government offices in 2009.

Figures from when it first opened under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the development expense at about a significant sum.

Work on the building got underway soon after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

Part of the road and a large section of footpath 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 another locale have been compelled one after another into a tight, enclosed passage.

Seafood restaurant Ondine departed from the building and transferred to another city in 2024.

In a release, its operators said the ongoing project had compelled them to modify the restaurant's appearance, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also hosts restaurant chain a chain – which has displayed large signs on the structure to inform customers it is operating as usual.

Missed Deadlines

An report to the a city committee in the start of the year indicated that the process of "exposing" the frontage would commence in February, with a total takedown by the close of the year.

But the contractor has said that will not happen, referencing "highly complicated" building problems for the setback.

"We project starting to take down sections of the structure close to the conclusion of next year, with subsequent enhancements ongoing after that," a statement read.

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

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, director of conservation group the a local association, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "protracted" for urban works.

She said those working on the project had a "obligation to the public" to reduce disturbance and should integrate the work into the city's aesthetic.

She said: "It causes the experience for those on foot in that area of the city really difficult.

"It is perplexing why there is not a try to incorporate it within the street view or develop something more aesthetic and innovative."

Ongoing Efforts

A official statement said work on "measures to beautify the site" was continuing.

They added: "We recognize the irritations felt by local residents and enterprises.

"This represents a lengthy and protracted process, reflecting the intricacy and magnitude of the repair work required, however we are committed to finishing this essential work as soon as is practicable."

Ms Meagher said the city would "maintain pressure" on those accountable to complete the project.

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

"Nonetheless, I also recognize that the contractor has a duty to make the building structurally sound and that this repair has been extremely complicated."