If 2 Coasters are going to Kibblesworth an hour and 2 going to Wrekenton, then I can't see the Waggonway continuing in its present format.
Another network re-launch in Gateshead?
(Blame the wine but...) The 28 and 28a (or 709, 728 or 733) in its original guise took just as long (if not quicker) to get to points beyond Eighton Lodge/The Angel, as the Low Fell services.
Yes, the current DAF's are naff, but for the life of me, I can't understand why they aren't more popular as a local Gateshead service, than they actually are.
Heading down Bensham Bank, locals will wait for a Saltwell Park or Highwayman, even though a 28a is waiting at the stop.
Passengers waiting to get up along Old Durham Road, will prefer a 56 or 57 over a 28 (or X25).
When working in Newcastle or Gateshead in years gone by and needing to be back at Chester or Birtley, I would specifically choose these services, knowing they took a similar time, but were half as crowded.
RE: Go North East