I would also like an earlier X30 Consett to Newcastle journey, half an hour to that currently.
Let's be honest, the X30 extension hasn't had a chance to prove itself with the COVID-19 epidemic.
(24 Nov 2020, 9:25 pm)L469 YVK wrote Well, it appears that's not the case anymore and the StreetDecks will remain where they are.
But, not taking into account spares, the following could be achieved with what Consett have depending on future changes (not exactly January):
X45/X46/X47
- 8x new StreetDecks
- 3x 67 reg StreetDecks
- 3x 2019 ADL E400MMC
X30/X70/X71
- 8x new ADL E400MMC (X30 no longer extended to Consett)
X31 (incl X32)
- 3x new ADL E400MMC - not extended to Consett in lieu of X30 and driver changes at Stanley***
*** With the 78 swapped to Hownsgill, could the X31 not go the other way to Chester Le Street? Driving distance from Stanley to Chester Le Street is only 6.1 miles via shortest route. Driving distance from Stanley to Hownsgill is 8.2 miles via shortest route. Driving hours would be either 2x trips on peak (3 hours) or 3x off peak (4.5 hours). Time in the van would be approx 15 mins each way.
Plus, if the full Sunday X21 still operates going forward, then the 3x E400MMCs could then be utilised on the Sunday X21 thus qualifying for BSOG (B5TL doesn't qualify) whilst also reducing fuel costs.