A GoPro with external power and large cards may be the way to go, depending upon the subject and the output needed. With the external power, I'd set it up with a UPS in case there's a power glitch. However with the GP, good lighting is the key to reasonable-quality jpeg files.
Though using a Nikon/Canon would be a nice set-up, the wear-and-tear of the shutter could lead to an early shutter failure and if shooting raw, you could be overwhelmed with files out of your ears. However, the Nikon can combine the TL frames into a ready-to-edit video, though you will loose the original stills.
When I was looking into a similar project that would be many weeks, if not months, for TL and demolition progression photos, power was the main issue, especially where the camera was to be located. As I researched the solution, I did find a few cameras designed for construction sites that I think didn't require too much herding to keep going, meaning you didn't have to check on them daily. Not sure what's around today.