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Positioned on the most popular thoroughfares in the centre of Scotland's historic capital stands a imposing sight of construction framework.

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

Visitors cannot book rooms, foot traffic are funneled through tight corridors, and establishments have left the building.

Restoration efforts commenced in 2020 and was originally estimated to last a few months, but now exasperated residents have been told the structure could stay in place until 2027.

Prolonged Deadlines

The main contractor, the primary firm, says it will be "towards the end" of 2026 before the earliest portions of the frame can be removed.

Edinburgh's council leader Jane Meagher has labeled it a "negative feature" on the area, while preservation advocates say the work is "highly inconvenient".

What is transpiring with this seemingly endless project?

A Problematic Past

The establishment with 136 rooms was built on the site of the former Lothian Regional Council offices in 2009.

Estimates from when it initially debuted under the Missoni Hotel banner, put the development expense at about £30m.

Remedial efforts got underway shortly after the start of the global health crisis with the hotel itself shut for business since 2022.

Part of the road and a large section of sidewalk leading up to the intersection of the historic street have been closed off by the work.

People on foot going to and from the Lawnmarket and another locale have been required single-file into a narrow, covered walkway.

An eatery Ondine quit the building and relocated to a different location in 2024.

In a comment, its owners said building work had obliged them to change the restaurant's look, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also the location of dining franchise a chain – which has placed large banners on the structure to remind customers it is open for business.

Delayed Plans

An update to the council's transport and environment committee in January this year stated that the process of "uncovering" the frontage would commence in February, with a total takedown by the close of the year.

But the contractor has said that is incorrect, pointing to "highly complicated" construction issues for the delay.

"We expect starting to remove portions of the structure towards the end of 2026, with additional work proceeding afterwards," a statement read.

"We are collaborating closely with all parties to ensure we deliver an enhanced site for the public."

Community and Heritage Concerns

A heritage director, head of heritage body the Cockburn Association, said the work had reinforced the city's reputation of being "slow" for construction projects.

She said those involved in the project had a "public duty" to minimise disturbance and should integrate the work into the city's streetscape.

She said: "It causes the pedestrian experience in that area of the city really difficult.

"It is puzzling why there is not a try to bring it into the urban landscape or produce something more creative and cutting-edge."

Project Response

A company representative said work on "measures to aesthetically improve the site" was ongoing.

They continued: "We understand the frustrations felt by local residents and shops.

"This has been a lengthy and protracted process, demonstrating the difficulty and size of the remedial work required, however we are committed to concluding this necessary work as soon as is feasible."

The official said the council would "keep applying pressure" on those involved to wrap up the project.

She said: "This framework has been a blight for years, and I echo the frustration of inhabitants and area enterprises over these ongoing postponements.

"That said, I also acknowledge that the contractor has a duty to make the building safe and that this remediation has been exceptionally difficult."