(14 Aug 2022, 11:45 am)L469 YVK wrote Well post #1229 (https://northeastbuses.co.uk/forum/showt...#pid282961) on the Arriva Service Suggestions thread did take into account the operational challenges although it did show a few longer term 'implications' and benefits a swap would being which is what the discussion is about. Other than interworking patterns (which again as an operational issue), no mention of re-designing the network.
At one end of the spectrum, there's GNE who effectively don't have any presence in North Tyneside other than 4x groups of routes. At the other end of the spectrum, you have Arriva who do have some presence in the area although they can't remain at Jesmond for lease reasons or sustain a 'new' facility. Surely a swap would make sense? Effectively as long as the TUPE conditions were laid down to keep both sets of drivers happy, it would be a win-win:
- GNE effectively 'streamline' their depots only leaving Riverside, Consett (and Hexham), Washington and Deptford
- Arriva get another 'facility' cheaper than having to build a new facility with potential future development plans
- Both sets of drivers in most instances won't need to commute 'mega miles' just to get to work
GNE would never get away doing what they did to CLS with Percy Main. CLS had the advantage of nearby depots at Consett (although more miles away than Riverside but less traffic with potentially CLS drivers living in the likes of Stanley etc), Washington and Deptford. I doubt many drivers at Percy Main would take to being moved to Riverside. So longer term, it would be a problem washed both of GNE's and Arriva's hands.
Would it not just be easier all round if Arriva shared a depot with GNE? In this case Percy Main. IIRC the idea was floated in the Peter Huntley days though I don’t know how far it was pursued.