If there is going to be a commercial rival to the 37, then logically it can't go the same route (not enough money on that route, otherwise operators wouldn't operate it under contract... )
Anyway...
Dox Park - A19 - Barnwell Shops - Station Road - Washington Highway - Galleries.
Logic being, that the 37 rarely stops anywhere in the Herringtons and despite being not far at all from Dox Park as the crow flies, it is a nightmare to get to from Penshaw.
RE: Go North East Service Suggestions
'Illegitimis non carborundum'