Plans to provide a hovercraft service across the Forth are a step closer, after the operators announced they had £14 million of funding in place.
Transport Giant Stagecoach has teamed up with hover manufacturer the Bland Group, with both companies agreeing to stump up half the cash.
However, the pair still have to secure planning permission if they are to push ahead with plans for a service between Kirkcaldy and Portobello.
Stagecoach wants to run two hovercraft on the route, with a crossing every 25-minutes during peak times.
Stagecoach Chief Executive Brian Souter said: "We believe it is important to maintain the momentum behind the project and we are delighted to have a joint venture partner and significant private sector funding now in place.
"This is a further step forward in our plans. Securing planning permission is a critical element of the project and we will be looking to progress this while continuing our discussions on public sector support."
The hovercraft service was piloted in summer 2007 and was used by around 32,000 passengers. The firms behind the plans hope a full-time service would attract 870,000 passengers each year.
Consultation meetings will now be arranged on both sides of the Forth, with planning applications expected to be submitted to both Fife and City of Edinburgh Councils by the end of the year.
The planning documents include details of landing ramps, passenger terminals, maintenance facilities and car parking for a permanent service.
It is thought the majority of set up costs would be covered by the £14 million, though some public cash could also be required.
James Gaggero, chairman of Bland Group, said: "We look forward to working with Stagecoach and the planning authorities to introduce commercial hovercraft to Scotland and build on the successful trial in 2007."
Last updated: 19 November 2009, 16:14
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