(20 Jun 2020, 7:41 pm)L469 YVK wrote It's not so much about changing the bus network but rather "streamlining" it.

To be fair, there's nothing in the current form that needs to change in terms of routes. But in terms of frequencies and passengers vs demand, Arriva are going to need to adjust accordingly on some of their core routes.

Passenger numbers post social distancing will likely reduce to some extent, hopefully not too much. But Arriva can't keep running around using the bare minimum in terms of vehicle quality. They need to start doing things properly. Having the correct vehicles for the correct PVR and suitable spares available (and NOT an ex-London boneshaker tarted up in MAX branding & spec).

I'm not sure "bare minimum" is fair. In Northumbria in particular, each express route has either seen refurbs or brand new vehicles in the last 6 years. I also can't think of an instance where vehicle availability doesn't match/exceed PVR - unless there is a VOR surplus. 

Arriva's business model is, and always has been, to invest in waves - while enthusiasts and GNE fans don't like it it's clearly successful, otherwise there'd be no Arriva. They spend money where and when required, arguably therefore allowing slightly higher frequencies than would otherwise be possible. 

Equally, those "boneshakers" you describe - not a huge issue imo. I had to pop through to Cramlington the other day and was treated to the 18.5 year old 7484. While top speed was an issue, acceleration was smooth (gear changes next to unnoticeable), there were virtually no rattles and the brakes weren't too harsh or noisy. Inside it was fairly nice and airy, seat moquette was clean and appealing - and for Civic V2s they were pretty comfortable. I've had far worse trips on newer E400s and Streetdecks - with the ride quality of 7484 being light-years ahead of a Streetlite. The MAX B7 refurbs also allow for route upgrades where new/newer stock simply isn't justifiable - don't forget that for things like the X20 it's a route (largely) dominated by concession travel. 

While, bar Sapphire, Arriva have never had a huge push to drive people onto buses because of fancy specs - they have recognised that WiFi is now accepted as a standard and majority of their vehicles now have it. Instead they seem to push frequency and fares - and for the most part this is where they do very well. People want frequent, reliable and good value buses - by and large that's what Arriva give you.