I don't think we can compare different operators making service changes when discussing the feasibility of making changes to the network.
Go North East and Stagecoach run in totally different ways. Why compare the two? One way may be more successful than the other or be more respected by its customers, but that's irrelevant.
If we were to compare different services from the same operator having changes, then I'd be more likely to agree with what is being said.
Go North East's 53/54 services are very successful, and this is demonstrated by the services receiving new vehicles later this year. The timetable hasn't seen any changes since January 2010.
Go North East's X9/X10 services are again, very successful. Timetable hasn't changed since October 2011.
There are some examples which have changed more frequently than others too, but if this is done in an attempt to ensure that timings are perfect and that the reliability of a service is better, I'd prefer to have the service changes performed.
That said, I agree it can sometimes determine whether a service is failing or not. Service X3 being a prime example. Extensive service changes have just taken place because the service was not making enough money.
We really can't compare how operators work, and how they justify whether a service is commercially feasible or not. Where Stagecoach may look at the "full picture" to decide whether a route is successful or not (looking at the overall profit level of a service over a period of time), Go North East may only look at individual runs to determine if the service is successful if it isn't one of their leading services. If the service isn't making enough money, likelihood with Go North East is that it will either get cut even if it is just part of the route (if it doesn't affect later timings greatly) or it will be re-timed. Stagecoach, on the other hand, are happy to run services that are sometimes completely empty for a great period of the run if the service is still meeting or exceeding profit levels over the course of a full day or other given time period.
RE: Service Suggestions