(21 May 2022, 12:30 pm)L469 YVK wrote - Non standard type with difficult upkeep. Withdrawn ones could also make spares for the remaining 9.

- No mention of 16/16A, they'd remain unchanged. Volvo B5TLs on the 47 would be a decent upgrade over the B9TLs from a customer perspective, bringing it closer to the X45 standards but still keeping that spec difference to make the X45  stand out. Likewise, the B9TLs on there have been ragged to death on the X9/X10 and the Tyne Valley Ten. The X5/X15 would be easier lines of work for these not forgetting that Riverside will also need an extra 2x for spares and the PVR increase of the 58.

- Other than 6362 & 63 making up the PVR, why would GNE want 6x nearly new StreetDecks sitting in 'spare' roles or working low key and secondary routes? 6356-61 alongside 6377 and 6331/32 would be a welcome change on the X21.

Maybe try some brand new routes. They might aswell. Newcastle - Sunderland, Blyth to Newcastle V Follingsby.

But that would mean re-branding buses a ridiculous amount of times, which cost money. I would rather B5's over B9's however it costs thousands to repaint.