Based upon the number of drivers working on Boxing Day, you build a core network. As with any operation, it is obvious that your primary operations are going to be those which take priority. This is not to suggest that secondary routes are overlooked. Indeed, the Blaydon Racers service 49 and 49B operated at a combined 15 frequency yesterday, over the 30 minute combined frequency provided on Laser services 35B and 35C. The 21 operated at a 10 minute frequency yesterday, between Newcastle and Chester-le-Street. Providing service users with a normal Sunday service operation, and allowing 1200 people per hour to be moved between Chester-le-Street and Newcastle.
In an ideal situation, the new Wright Gemini, for the Fab Fifty Six service, would have been used on Red Arrows operations yesterday. It is normally the case that vehicle types are matched as close as possible to their usual counterparts, to provide a similar total capacity. However, the Wright Solar vehicles have been used on Red Arrows operations over the past few years, on a Boxing Day, with no loading issues. Maybe there was an unpredictable increase in demand this year?
It isn't all about “demand”, it is about creating a network which will transport a larger proportion of passengers. A service to the Team Valley Retail Park could be provided, but this would potentially result in another service being unable to operate. The X31 does stop at the Team Valley, so a service to the Team Valley was provided. It is a difficult decision to make, and no doubt those who do, base their efforts upon guaranteeing a larger proportion of network users are able to travel.
RE: Go North East - Latest