(13 Sep 2020, 10:42 pm)Andreos1 wrote Based on my comments earlier relating to the X1, I propose the following:How much time would really be saved by the x1 not stopping on Wrekenton High Street? I'd say on balance it might as well just keep stopping rather than overcomplicating things for passengers with new tickets to save a couple of minutes at the most.
Changes to stopping arrangements between Easington Lane and Shiney Row. Revisions to route around the Galleries.
Between Easington Lane and Shiney Row, the service will operate non-stop, apart from a handful of locations which fall in to the key destination category or unique section of route.
These stops are Easington Lane Clock, Hetton Interchange, Houghton Broadway, Kingdom Hall, Grasswell, Herrington Burn and Shiney Row.
At the Galleries, drivers will have the option of picking from the 3 possible exit routes to the A182.
Southbound trips have the option of picking from one of the two possible exit routes from the A182. Technology, driver knowledge and control can assist with the best option to take.
It will no longer stop at Wrekenton in either direction.
Passengers boarding at any of the stops no-longer served by the X1, will be able to use their day/week/monthly tickets or buy an 'X1+1' single/return.
This ticket allows them to board an alternative service (such as the 55, 265 or 35 in the coalfields) between their stop and one of those listed above - for no extra cost.
This will also be on offer for those affected in Wrekenton, in both directions. For example, someone travelling on a relatively short trip between Wrekenton and the Galleries, could board a frequent 56 to Springwell and pick up the X1 from there.
Other express routes could benefit from similar arrangements. As an example, the X70 will operate non-stop between the top of Lobley Hill and Gateshead.
The X45 will no longer stop at any of the stops between Swalwell and Newcastle bar the Metrocentre.
Similar '+1' tickets will be available for those travelling to/from stops no longer served.
I estimate that these changes will save several minutes from the overall journey time and inconvenience very few people. Those few who are affected, won't be impacted financially by these changes.
Those travelling the greater distances, will benefit from shorter journey times and a perceived 'faster' journey.
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