(01 Apr 2021, 1:29 pm)mb134 wrote Strange that the 35/X21/X22 cycle is remaining. From what I've been told there are a few X21 trips in the morning running very close to capacity as it stands, and the 35 is getting good loads throughout the day. I can only imagine with retail opening, and shoppers/workers returning to public transport that they aren't going to cope on a half hourly frequency - the 35 in particular.At the moment, it'll obviously be hit and miss particularly where social distancing is concerned. Arriva fingers crossed will be agile enough to realise and put dupes on where needed. During the day a 30 minute service makes sense though.
Noticed that the summer X18 is making a return, which is good to see.
Going forward is the big one though and no doubt Arriva will need to streamline. GNE already have over the years and no doubt Arriva will need to. Gone are the days of Cityzens with water leaks or 'Smartie' seat Palatines.
There is of course the threat of the BTR link but even then, the patronage shouldn't be hit too greatly as different commuters / passengers will have different requirements. For some, rail will work better but the bus for others will suit their needs better.
I'd strongly suggest curtailing the top end of the X21 to hourly (Ashington - Newbiggin) and introduce a sister X19 service to the X20 though. Would interwork perfectly with the X21 and solve a missing piece of the puzzle with a lower PVR.