(21 Jun 2022, 3:40 pm)DeltaMan wrote Probably one for the suggestions but I am surprised NEXUS didnt think of splitting off the R5/R6 at Winlaton and merging it with the 12/12A to keep the routes seperate and easy to use as well as creating new links. The secured part between Winlaton and Ryton is covered by the R4 and I think it would save a bus.
R5 is the Rowlands Gill/Burnopfield village service.
R3/R4 is the old 616/617 between Blaydon and Rowlands Gill via Thornley Lane & Sherburn Towers (with a varied route between Blaydon and Winlaton and a detour into Winlaton Mill). It also operates between Blaydon and Clara Vale via the old 605/606 route (more or less).
R6 is the Rowlands Gill to Winlaton via High Spen and Barlow section of the 616/617, continuing to Ryton via Stargate (I think it also goes along the Bypass and down Woodside Lane instead of going through Crookhill).