(25 Jun 2022, 4:03 pm)Adrian wrote When I've been out and about today (and to be honest, the whole of this week), its more noticeable than ever just how sick of these disruptions the public are getting.I was on the 56 earlier and it was filled to the brim for most of the journey. Definitely doesn't help that the Metros are off (even though the 56 doesn't serve any of the Metro stations between Stadium of Light and Gateshead). Definitely not helpful for people who live in Concord, etc, who want to travel into Newcastle.
I've seen multiple instances of drivers getting it in the neck from irate customers, both on the bus and whilst they're waiting to take a bus on (e.g. at Chester front street). Whilst I think its bang out of order the way some customers talk to drivers, I think its sadly becoming inevitable due to the amount of disruption.
There's also more and more people complaining about it in conversation, e.g. when I'm on board or waiting for a bus. A 56 I used earlier, apparently the one prior didnt turn up, the one after was cancelled, and the one we boarded was being cut short at Gateshead. Is this the active regulation that Martijn Gilbert referenced on twitter?
I wonder just how much these operators, and I know its not just GNE, are shooting themselves in the foot right now. As I've said before, why would anyone switch to bus, unless you like ending up pissed off?
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If the old Fast Cats X36 was still running, that'd probably end up being packed as well, since if I remember correctly it was faster than the 56 and would've also served as a viable alternative for people travelling between Heworth, etc. and Sunderland.