(26 Jul 2019, 6:04 pm)streetdeckfan wrote </p><p>
</p><p><br></p><p>But why would Arriva 'waste' money improving services in areas that already have a high proportion of bus users. The lack of competition means that Arriva can get away with not investing anything as passengers have no choice but to use their service</p><p></p><p>
</p><p>If that was the case, why did Arriva launch Brand New Buses onto the Sapphire X21/X22, when there is very little competition...</p><p><br></p><p>The likes of the 22/23/24 services are similar to the 56/57/57A, although only the first set of services have been upgraded to a premium standard.</p><p><br></p><p>Let's not forget that the 57A is the key direct service linking Hartlepool with Durham, yet has no features available compared to service 24, which takes longer to reach Durham.</p><p><br></p><p>I think with service investment it is based on a pick & choose basis, as soms services that are in their 'premium brands' don't warrant them.</p>