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On one of the most frequented avenues in the core of Scotland's ancient city stands a imposing sight of scaffolding.

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

Tourists find no available accommodations, foot traffic are squeezed through narrow walkways, and commercial tenants have abandoned the building.

Restoration efforts commenced in 2020 and was initially projected to last a brief duration, but now exasperated residents have been told the structure could remain until 2027.

Further Delays

The main contractor, the lead company, says it will be "close to the conclusion" of 2026 before the first sections of the frame can be removed.

A local authority figure a city representative has called it a "eyesore" on the area, while heritage campaigners say the work is "highly inconvenient".

What is transpiring with this notoriously protracted project?

Background Issues

The sizeable hotel was constructed on the site of the old local government offices in 2009.

Figures from when it originally launched under the a fashion-branded banner, put the development expense at about a significant sum.

Remedial efforts got underway shortly after the start of the coronavirus outbreak with the hotel itself not accepting visitors since 2022.

A section of the street and a sizable stretch of sidewalk leading up to the corner of the tourist drag have been left out of action by the work.

Walkers going to and from the a nearby area and Victoria Terrace have been forced one after another into a narrow, covered walkway.

An eatery Ondine departed from the building and moved to another city in 2024.

In a release, its operators said building work had forced them to change the restaurant's facade, adding that "customers deserved better".

It is also home to restaurant chain Pizza Express – which has hung large banners on the structure to inform customers it is open for business.

Missed Deadlines

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

But SRM has said that is not the case, pointing to "extremely complex" building problems for the postponement.

"We expect starting to take down sections of the structure near the finish of the coming year, with subsequent enhancements ongoing after that," they said.

"Efforts are underway closely with everyone involved to ensure we deliver an better site for the community."

Local and Conservation Frustration

Rowan Brown, director of heritage body the Cockburn Association, said the work had added to the city's reputation of being "leisurely" for urban works.

She said those involved in the project had a "obligation to the public" to reduce inconvenience and should blend the work into the city's aesthetic.

She said: "It causes the pedestrian experience in that part of town very hard.

"It is puzzling why there is not some attempt to integrate it into the street view or develop something more artistic and innovative."

Continued Work

A project spokesperson said work on "measures to beautify the site" was in progress.

They added: "We acknowledge the irritations felt by nearby inhabitants and businesses.

"This represents a lengthy and protracted process, demonstrating the complexity and magnitude of the remedial work required, however we are focused on finishing this necessary work as soon as is practicable."

Ms Meagher said the council would "keep applying pressure" on those responsible to finish the project.

She said: "This framework has been a problem for years, and I understand the exasperation of locals and nearby shops over these continued delays.

"However, I also recognize that the company has a duty to make the building secure and that this repair has turned out to be extremely complicated."