(14 Sep 2020, 8:53 am)JP6004 wrote And the massive increase in traffic
I'd argue that any increase in traffic is partially to do with bus operators.
Not adapting to changes to travel/work habits, fares or frequency changes could be 3 reasons why car use is higher than it was almost 40 years ago. I'm sure there are many more relating to public transport - regardless of any other factors which could exist.
The X1 is 7 mins slower on the southern section of its route than its predecessor was almost 40 years ago. That's despite the vehicles being more powerful, having Newbottle St dedicated to buses only and the removal of significant traffic associated with the pits at Philidelphia, Houghton, Eppleton and Easington Lane.