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On one of the most frequented avenues in the core of Scotland's historic capital sits a giant structure of construction framework.

For half a decade, Radisson's G&V Hotel on the corner of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and George IV Bridge has been a plastic-wrapped eyesore.

Travellers are unable to reserve stays, walkers are directed through narrow walkways, and commercial tenants have abandoned the building.

Repair work started in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a short period, but now exasperated residents have been told the scaffolding could remain until 2027.

Further Delays

The main contractor, the main contractor, says it will be "near the finish" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the frame can be taken down.

Edinburgh's council leader a city representative has called it a "negative feature" on the area, while conservationists say the work is "highly inconvenient".

What is transpiring with this seemingly endless project?

Background Issues

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

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

Construction activity started soon after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself shut for business since 2022.

A section of the street and a sizable stretch of footpath leading up to the junction of the historic street have been closed off by the development.

Walkers going to and from the a nearby area and Victoria Terrace have been required single-file into a narrow, covered walkway.

Seafood restaurant a well-known restaurant quit the building and moved to a different location in 2024.

In a comment, its management said construction activity had compelled them to modify the restaurant's appearance, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also hosts popular eatery a pizza restaurant – which has displayed large notices on the framework to remind customers it is still open.

Delayed Plans

An report to the a city committee in early this year indicated that the process of "revealing" the frontage would start in February, with a full removal by the year's end.

But the firm has said that will not happen, referencing "exceptionally intricate" building problems for the setback.

"We expect starting to remove parts of the framework close to the conclusion of the coming year, with further improvements continuing thereafter," the company commented.

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

Local and Conservation Frustration

Rowan Brown, director of conservation group the Cockburn Association, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "slow" for urban works.

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

She said: "It renders the walking experience in that part of town exceptionally challenging.

"It is perplexing why there is not an effort to incorporate it within the street view or develop something more creative and cutting-edge."

Ongoing Efforts

A official statement said work on "solutions to beautify the site" was in progress.

They added: "We acknowledge the annoyances felt by local residents and enterprises.

"This has been a lengthy and protracted process, demonstrating the complexity and magnitude of the repair work required, however we are dedicated to finishing this essential work as soon as is possible."

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

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

"That said, I also recognize that the firm has a obligation to make the building secure and that this restoration has turned out to be extremely complicated."