I was thinking, maybe use a tri-axle single deckers on busy routes with low bridges, but the only ones that spring to mind that would be busy enough would be the 4 or the 8/8A/78/78A.
(27 Jul 2021, 12:14 pm)Andreos1 wrote I was humming and harring about the idea of this MotoHub.You would also have the X21 from The A1 and you could divert the X32 that way. Unless you think the X21 should go into Washington Galleries
As the network stands, I don't think it could work.
However, if operators and local authorities actually spoke with each other, I think there's some potential.
Particularly with the rumoured P&R sites just a few miles down the road.
There's very few routes that go anywhere near the services as it stands. 82 and 25 along Portobello Road and the 81/82 and 50 (can't remember what route it takes out of Washington this week) in Ayton. Plus those services which head along the motorway.
If this hub was developed, multi-story carparking introduced (see Durham Station for an example of how that was done), routes were adapted and it was used not only as a hub to connect services - but also as a potential P&R site for places like Newcastle, Gateshead, Metrocentre, Chester le Street and Sunderland (it is on the border of three county boundaries) - I think there is potential.
No doubt it would cost money and it is totally different to anything seen before, but if LA's and operators want to see people make the modal switch, I do think they need to think outside the box.
A redesign of the dated services along with a change to the road structure either side of the motorway and this MotoHub, could be 'outside the box.
From a commercial perspective, Moto could be licking their lips! Footfall (and spending) could increase massively within the concessions.