(01 Apr 2021, 4:42 pm)Adrian wrote I think the idea of having an express to Beamish from Newcastle/Gateshead is a good idea, but I'm surprised at both the timing and that it also serves Chester-le-Street. 

I cannot understand the need to go via Chester-le-Street, when the 8/28 will do it in 16 minutes. It forces the B1 to have to wade through Low Fell and Birtley, when it could alternatively run via Sunniside to Beamish.

Probably getting in to the whole express vs limited stop thing, but if the existing equivalent journies are just as quick/slow - then I don't see the point in the B1 as it is.

Yes, there may be tourists in Newcastle - but the 28/28a are already established.
Ditto the 28/28a and 8 from Chester.
I'm not sure of the need to introduce the B1 when I would argue the market between Newcastle/Chester - Beamish is more than covered. Is there really the need for upto 4 buses an hour between Chester and Beamish? Ditto the 3 buses between Newcastle and Beamish. 
I can see some logic in sending it via Sunniside, but again, I'd look to open up new markets rather than introduce another  bus to/from Beamish and Newcastle.