(16 May 2022, 9:50 pm)F114TML wrote Replacing the 206 with the X6 is a good shout, actually (and provides a useful service to Sunderland, unlike the half-arsed and desperate extension of the 55). I could've sworn the X21/X22 go on the A19 after Wingate - evidently not.
I'll be honest, the main goals of this were:
Increase links to Bracken Hill (88 provides this serving Horden and Easington, with the X88 for good measure)
Increase links to Horden Station (87 provides this to Shotton and Wingate)
Replace the 209/210 (extension of the 206 sees most of that off although that section could easily be a route in its own right, the 89 only really exists to serve the rest, and to Shotton because there was space left in the timetable).
While we're here, then the X7 went to Oakerside, did it terminate where my 89 does or somewhere else along Durham Way?
Just checked the X21/X22 again, it does go on the A19 that was my mistake. The rest of it is covered by the 22/24 instead though which serves most places bar the station. You could always send the 24 to the station though but it's only really Shotton Colliery that would be affected (not sure there's too much demand).
Yeah I could see the Hordon station extensions why I sent them all there as it's a good idea imo. Maybe a case for the X1 aswell so people from Houghton etc could connect to Middlesbrough and beyond. The X21/X22 would give Easington a link and the X6 Blackhall a link and they're arguably the places that would use it.
Just think Easington would appreciate links to beyond, they already have the 22/24, no offence to them can't many working at Bracken Hill, it's such an awkward place to serve though mind.
Not sure on the X7 tbf can't answer. Just think local routes aren't the right move as people don't like changing hence why the 22/23/24 are popular as badly as they're run and GNE is struggling pretty much.