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On one of the most frequented avenues in the heart of Scotland's historic capital looms a imposing sight of metal poles and platforms.

For half a decade, Radisson's G&V Hotel on the intersection of the famous Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a shrouded blight.

Visitors find no available accommodations, foot traffic are directed through confined passages, and establishments have left the building.

Restoration efforts started in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a short period, but now fed-up residents have been told the structure could persist until 2027.

Further Delays

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the main contractor, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the first sections of the frame can be taken down.

The city's political leader Jane Meagher has called it a "blight" on the area, while preservation advocates say the work is "extremely disruptive".

What is happening with this notoriously protracted project?

Background Issues

The sizeable hotel was constructed on the site of the old regional authority offices in 2009.

Figures from when it originally launched under the a fashion-branded banner, put the cost of construction at about £30m.

Work on the building began soon after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

A lane of traffic and a significant portion of sidewalk leading up to the intersection of the tourist drag have been rendered unusable by the development.

Walkers going to and from the an adjacent district and another locale have been forced in a line into a narrow, covered walkway.

A dining establishment a popular spot quit the building and moved to a different location in 2024.

In a statement, its management said building work had obliged them to alter the restaurant's facade, adding that "guests were entitled to a superior experience".

It is also home to dining franchise Pizza Express – which has hung large banners on the scaffold to notify customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

An report to the council's transport and environment committee in January this year suggested that the process of "exposing" the frontage would start in February, with a complete dismantling by the end of the year.

But the contractor has said that is not the case, citing "highly complicated" construction issues for the postponement.

"We project starting to take down sections of the scaffold towards the end of next year, with subsequent enhancements proceeding afterwards," a statement read.

"We are working closely with everyone involved to ensure we create an enhanced site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A conservation official, director of conservation group the Cockburn Association, said the work had contributed to the city's reputation of being "protracted" for construction projects.

She said those associated with the project had a "public duty" to lessen disruption and should incorporate the work into the city's design.

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

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

Ongoing Efforts

A project spokesperson said work on "solutions to enhance the appearance the site" was continuing.

They stated: "We understand the annoyances felt by the community and shops.

"This constitutes a long and drawn-out process, demonstrating the difficulty and scale of the restoration required, however we are committed to concluding this vital work as soon as is practicable."

Ms Meagher said the local authority would "keep applying pressure" on those responsible to complete the project.

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

"However, I also acknowledge that the firm has a responsibility to make the building structurally sound and that this repair has turned out to be exceptionally difficult."