The scheme to introduce a hovercraft link between Edinburgh and Fife could still go ahead, according to transport giant Stagecoach.

The company have said they will “re-appraise” the case for a Forth crossing if it wins planning permission to develop waiting facilities at Portobello and Kirkcaldy. It claims these are a “key first step” for the project.

Planning officials have recommended that the proposals are accepted. However, councillors will make a final decision this week.

A pilot scheme carried out in 2007 was hailed as a success. The hovercraft crossing coould potentially reduce congestion on the Forth road bridge.