(29 Mar 2017, 9:42 pm)James101 wrote It wasn't too long about (2012 maybe?) that GNE had a go at a Hartlepool - Newcastle service by way of the X11. It was the X35 route to Peterlee then the X9 to Newcastle. I guess it didn't work as it didn't offer anything new that wasn't available by making a change at Peterlee. When it was withdrawn there was separate timetable available online dedicated to X35/X9 connections as a replacement.
Hopefully the X55 will hold more appeal due to to it's more direct route, established Stagecoach presence and the word going around about coach operation?
Yeah, I can remember the X11. Wasn't that Saturdays only too?
I do think the Stagecoach 'feeder' network in Stockton and Hartlepool will have some effect on the service.
My only concerns are around the Saturday only, limited schedule.
Do they go for broke and invest heavily in a risky venture, or play it safe and hope for a gradual success?
The train north on a Saturday afternoon, is heaving on leaving Hartlepool, with people off for a day out.
Some of them are drinking and presumably, get the last train back. A bus there and train back, will probably cost more than a return ticket on the train.
If they aren't the target audience, is there enough demand for shoppers?