Stagecoach hopes sink in the water

The trial run of the first road and water coach was not a huge success on Monday after the floating bus had to be taken into the dry docks for repairs. The bright yellow amfibus, as it has been called, was being tested in the River Clyde near to Renfrew and Yoker when on its second crossing experienced some apparent technical difficulties. The test was immediately halted and the bus was removed for repairs to be carried out.

The problem had stemmed from the driver of the amfibus reporting that one of the suspension airbags had become dislodged. A spokesman for Stagecoach explained the situation and stressed that the airbag has nothing to with buoyancy and expected the problem to be fixed soon so that further testing could be carried out.

Stagecoach are testing the amfibus, which is estimated to cost around £700,000, as a possible replacement for the ferry service that is due to end this March. They want to offer their customers the chance to still cross the water here rather than having to travel the long wat around to visit the other town. It will be able to carry up to 50 passengers and be capable of 60mph on land and eight knots across the river. These type of coaches are already in use for leisure activities, but this could be the first service of its kind in the UK. A spokesman said they aim to have the service open as soon as testing is complete.