(15 Jul 2023, 9:13 pm)Storx wrote I don't know what the answer is with the 57/57A but they badly need another bus added to the PVR, even if it meant giving them each 75 minutes to get from Ashington to Whitley Bay as an extension and the 57A omitting High Pitt and running direct from Annitsford. The reliability is an absolute shambles lately and it can't recover as it's too long.
Capacity also needs looked at on the 57. I've heard multiple reports recently of Solos heading to Cramlington from Ashington/Bedlington with standing loads, and I don't even believe that's usually considered the strongest section of the route?
I'd look at extending the 57A fully to Ashington, if resource allowed, to provide a combined 30 minute frequency between Ashington and Cramlington. I believe, if you cut down the layover at Ashington to 4 minutes, it would be doable with just one extra bus, as follows:
57:
Ashington dep 09:02
Whitley arr 10:10
57A:
Whitley dep: 10:15
Ashington arr: 11:28
57A:
Ashington dep: 11:32
Whitley arr: 12:45
57:
Whitley dep: 12:50
Ashington arr: 13:58
(15 Jul 2023, 9:13 pm)Storx wrote Can't comment much on the Morpeth expresses but either a Widdrington short, or taking over the 417 would be the best bet imo.
Tbh I think the old Widdrington short would be unnecessary given the X20 now serves Widdrington compared to when the old 518s existed.
I think incorporating the current 417 would be the best bet, and would also likely get them funding from NCC?