(05 Mar 2016, 10:56 pm)S813 FVK wrote Wonder what the 'Group projects' are. Nothing that we don't already know about?
Enthusiasts will know of one - the GKN flywheel modifications. Volvo B7TL 6020 was originally the float vehicle for this purpose, but was absorbed into the main service fleet at Chester-le-Street in November as a replacement for Dennis Trident/East Lancs Lolyne 3868 (W178 SCU), which was withdrawn due to engine issues.
6024, 6037 and 6041 are the examples which have been withdrawn. 6035 is due to transfer to Stanley as a temporary replacement for 3873. 6034 and 6040 will become the temporary float vehicles for group projects - based at Deptford and Washington respectively. I'd anticipate that the depots will make every effort to allocate these vehicles to scholars only, given that they won't be painted and will retain their blue livery.
6021 has been dismantled for spare parts at Saltmeadows Road. 6024 and 6037 may well be sold to Ensignbus, depending on the condition of these vehicles. 6041 is going to be donated to a third party, but there's a nice story that comes with this that Go North East may wish to do a story on, so I'll not give the game away just yet.