When the new timetable for the X9/X10 comes into force, this service will no longer be subject to E.U. rules, and as such, will not need tachographs. Each journey will be split into two, so that each half falls withinthe 50km rule for domestic rules. The X9 was never a problem as there was a natural half way point at Peterlee. However, the X10 was different and did not have a natural half way point. By including Dalton Park on the X10 there is now a natural break. What this means is that each journey from Newcastle to Middlesbrough is actually two journeys, using one bus. The same applies for the return. This is a work around for being able to use domestic rules instead of EU rules. There will be no need for a dedicated EU Rota at Riverside Depot, buses will not need tachograph, meaning that breakdowns can be covered much easier and allocation of duties will be simplified. Arriva have been using this system on the X12 and 685for a while now.
