They have not said what will happen when the major roadworks start but I'm expecting fun and games. 

However those who are suggesting to get the 9 from Dalton Park to Boldon are missing the point. 

When the service is diverted with no notice and the drivers don't advise, we do not realise it is missing the stop until it is too late and the bus has left Dalton Park and more often than not goes through Washington. 

Also thus is not something rare. In the last 4 weeks this has probably happened 6 times to me alone. 

Also just going back to the 9..  That is swapping a 14 minute express service for a 40 minute stopping at every stop service.