(25 Mar 2014, 12:55 pm)eezypeazy wrote If you want to compare the TEN with the old 602 and 604 from Arriva, then it's quite clear that the service is better, not just in terms of vehicles.
In your opinion, why (and how) is it clear that the service is better than before?
When the TEN was running to Hexham every 20 minutes (with the 11 running to Prudhoe every half-hour) then I can see how the service could be perceived as better as more buses ran than previously.
Now that the TEN operates every half-hour (the same frequency as the 602) between Hexham and Newcastle, with the 10B supplementing the service between Prudhoe and Newcastle (albeit with the same half-hour frequency as the 11 and 604), it seems that the level of service, in terms of frequency at the very least, is more or less the same as before GNE took over the route in 2010.
So what makes this service better than before?
Is it the timing of the service? Better (or cheaper) ticketing options? Newer buses which are more reliable? Better connections with services at either end? Friendlier drivers?
Conversely, what problems did you previously experience when Arriva operated services in the area?
I accept that GNE has improved the level of service between Newcastle, Corbridge and Hexham with the introduction of the X84/X85, so this is not a pop at GNE. However, the rest of the network in the Tynedale area (which is mostly ran with financial assistance from Northumberland County Council) seems pretty much the same as before.