If the locals give it a chance it there are quite a few positives to this. 

Quicker journeys between Cresswell Arms / Seacrest Rd and the Colliery to the Hospital. 

35 from the turning circle at the Cresswell Arms will travel all the way to Morpeth. 

It should help with reliability and time keeping. 

The different numbers may confuse to start with, but at least Arriva are consulting and preparing well in advance for the change.  As long as they make sure the bus stops are well signed it should be fine.