I think someone's been misinformed about the new buses, this was on the GNE Facebook page:
Hopefully the new buses coming soon will boost reliable for this route. I can't see you keeping the Tyne tees express buses for other routes, my guess is they be sold, looking forward to seeing new buses on this route soon, need reliable buses for A19.
RE: Go North East: Latest News & Discussion - March 2016
Ooo Friend, Bus Friend.