(26 Jul 2014, 8:02 am)Dan wrote I agree with this.
One of the reasons I did have a soft spot for Arriva when first starting out as an enthusiast was the fact that their fleet seemed so old compared to other operators' fleets; although both of the other main operators had vehicles just as elderly, I think it was mainly down to the fact that they'd been repainted, making them look slightly younger.
Of the three operators in the North East, I'm inclined to suggest that Arriva will see the most new arrivals this year - though of course, as Arriva typically favour light-weight vehicles, this should be expected. Nevertheless, the continued flow of investment should gain Arriva a few brownie points with us enthusiasts, and hopefully tie them over for a good few years before the fleet starts to show its age again.
The introduction of their real time technology applications came as something somewhat unusual, given that new technology does seem to be the forté of Go North East opposed to Arriva North East - but it being released first does but competitors at an advantage, as they'll be aware of any issues which Arriva may have had with it, and be able to improve their technology whilst still in development.
Arriva are in better shape than what they were between 2010 and 2013 but:
- More attention needs to be payed to reliability. If a bus takes 40 minutes, then say so but don't claim it to take less and if an extra bus is needed even if a Prestige, then get it on!
- Setup two local customer service numbers, one for Northumbria services and one for Durham County.
- For key routes, have dedicated service delivery managers.
- Only use wrongly branded buses as a last resort.