(31 Aug 2013, 3:50 pm)Adam Malarkey wrote And a great find it was, thanks for sharing cmba06
I think the re-introduction of the X2 between Newcastle and Sunderland would be great, then I would re-route the 8 so it goes Waterview Park - Sunderland Enterprise Park - Queen Alexandra Bridge - Sunderland Interchange heading in/out of Sunderland. That would then bring back the link of the old X4 between Washington and Sunderland.
As for a Coastal service to Sunderland I think that is a good idea, here is my view on it
7 - Whitley Bay - Marsden - Tynemouth - North Shields - Royal Quays - Tyne Tunnel - Jarrow - Tyne Dock - Chichester - South Shields - Horsley Hill - Whitburn - Seaburn - Roker - Sunderland Interchange
Whitley Bay to North Shields - 22 Minutes
North Shields to Jarrow - 17 Minutes
Jarrow to South Shields - 17 Minutes
South Shields to Sunderland - 48 Minutes
Total Journey Time = 104 Minutes
Could be less if it was limited stopping between certain stops i.e. Jarrow and South Shields and South Shields and Sunderland, I reckon it could take a minimum of 80 Minutes.
Can anyone think of any other ways to make it quicker than what it is.
Edit
7 - Sunderland - Fulwell - Boldon - Hedworth - York Avenue - Jarrow - Tyne Tunnel - Percy Main - Royal Quays - North Shields - Tynemouth - Marsden - Whitley Bay
This would only take 82 Minutes, but could be shortened if it was limited stopping
Jesus H. Christ, that would take forever...Still I do like the idea of Coastal Routes, thinking of your epic idea could it happen where GNE and Nexus introduce integrated ticketing on the Shields Ferry,
So with your idea in mind, I though about Sunderland-Whitley Ba, Seaton Sluice or Blyth
My idea would see it go from Sunderland straight down the Coast, picking up only at Roker Sea Front, Seaburn Morrisions-Whitburn, South Shields Ferry, Passengers then Transfer to Ferry to North Shields then jump back on a bus at NS upto Whitley Bay, maybe be an open top bus during the better days of summer