(06 Sep 2021, 2:14 pm)Drifter60 wrote . I can sort of see the 28/28A (even though I still think it’s a strange terminus for the 28A) as it does do a bit of magical mystery tour of those villages west of Chester. But even then, has the travel pattern of people in Pelton Fell, Grange Villa and Beamish changed that much considering the 28 has been largely unchanged for well over a decade now?
It does feel counterproductive they introduced the Beamish Express in almost competition with the 28 which has a pretty similar journey time. I can't imagine anyone willingly commutes on the 28A as it takes forever but the 28 is often quicker than the 21 (and more reliable) through from Birtley to Newcastle.
I do agree with your point on the tendered route though, we're going to essentially create bus poverty - you can see the press release now
'This service will no longer operate between Ouston and Chester Le Street - however Customers in Pelton wanting to travel to Newcastle can buy one of our super value day tickets (tho sorry Pelton you're just out of the range and there's no competition so you'll be needing the All Zone Go Ticket at just £7.50 - bargain)
'I know your only 9 miles from Newcastle but it's really great value...honest, look at Blyth that's double the distance away and they might only pay £4 to get to Newcastle but they can only get to Newcastle! You can travel the region - get to Hexham with yor ticket - nevermind you only want to get to Low Fell - we're BETTER THAN EVER!'