(16 Aug 2021, 8:54 pm)mb134 wrote I'm not sure how every discussion on a GNE thread ends up being about VDL Gemini's on Blyth express work.GNE's X21 funnily enough (I do have flaws with GNE too), I was actually disappointed (although the recent changes reveal why) when they split the original E400MMC order that the X21 wasn't considered. StreetDecks again, I don't personally think they're suited to the X1 and I'd hope that GNE have a succession route for them when better times allow or worst case, replace after 5 years.
The Blyth and Tyne line, imo, will have sod all impact on the ANE services into Newcastle from Blyth. They're already talking about cutting the Bebside station before the thing gets off the ground, so realistically everyone from Blyth is getting a bus to Newsham anyway - at which point you may as well just stay on it?
I hate to break it to you, but new vehicles have issues too. E400 MMCs not restarting at stops and whatever is going on with the X1 Streetdecks as two examples - both of which are arguably more noticeable than a VDL being in limp mode (which I've not had for a long time, and even then it wasn't horrendous). Then we get to "a B7TL deputising" - may I point you towards the Omnidekkas on the X21, there were 2 or 3 on there today.
This post isn't meant to paint ANE as some sort of angelic operator, every company has their flaws and I've been more than critical of ANE on investment in the past, but even if it was it doesn't even begin to balance out the swathes of constant negativity towards them - and remember, as has been pointed out on social media a fair bit recently, folk who work for them do read these posts and I don't imagine it's exactly motivating.
None of what's happening is the fault of any frontline staff & key backline staff (i.e drivers & fitters) at Arriva. Arriva actually turned a bit of a corner between 2010-2014 but sadly since then, minimal investment or innovation. I'd hope that unless it's broken and sold off, that new owners come in for the UK bus ops as a whole and actually make a good go of it! The Northumbria network is actually a good starting base with the correct investment, marketing and strategy. Northumbria could be easily streamlining without actually making any "major" cuts although some direct links would have to go.