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On one of the most popular thoroughfares in the core of Scotland's historic capital stands a giant structure of construction framework.

For the past 60 months, Radisson's G&V Hotel on the junction of a key historic street and George IV Bridge has been a covered eyesore.

Tourists are unable to reserve stays, foot traffic are funneled through tight corridors, and businesses have abandoned the building.

Restoration efforts began in 2020 and was initially projected to last a short period, but now frustrated residents have been told the structure could stay in place until 2027.

Further Delays

Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the main contractor, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the initial parts of the structure can be dismantled.

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

What is transpiring with this seemingly endless project?

A Problematic Past

The 136-bedroom hotel was constructed on the site of the former regional authority offices in 2009.

Estimates from when it first opened under the a fashion-branded banner, put the build cost 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 corner of the historic street have been left out of action by the work.

Pedestrians going to and from the an adjacent district and Victoria Terrace have been compelled one after another into a narrow, covered walkway.

Seafood restaurant Ondine left the building and relocated to St Andrews in Fife in 2024.

In a statement, its owners said construction activity had forced them to change the restaurant's look, adding that "guests were entitled to a superior experience".

It is also hosts restaurant chain Pizza Express – which has displayed large notices on the structure to notify customers it is open for business.

Delayed Plans

An update to the a local authority committee in the start of the year stated that the process of "revealing" the façade would start in February, with a total takedown by the end of the year.

But the firm has said that is incorrect, citing "exceptionally intricate" construction issues for the setback.

"We expect starting to dismantle parts of the framework close to the conclusion of next year, with further improvements ongoing after that," a statement read.

"We are working closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure we deliver an better site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

A heritage director, lead 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 involved in the project had a "obligation to the public" to reduce disturbance and should integrate the work into the city's design.

She said: "It renders the pedestrian experience in that section exceptionally challenging.

"It is puzzling why there is not some attempt to bring it into the urban landscape or develop something more artistic and avant-garde."

Project Response

A official statement said work on "solutions to enhance the appearance the site" was ongoing.

They stated: "We acknowledge the frustrations felt by the community and shops.

"This constitutes a extended and complex process, demonstrating the intricacy and scale of the repair work required, however we are focused on finishing this vital work as soon as is feasible."

The official said the city would "maintain pressure" on those accountable to finish the project.

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

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