The 309 is doing really well just as it's about to get an upgrade. But, what could GNE do to boost passenger numbers between Blyth and Rake Lane travelling to between Station Road and Newcastle? Despite the new Omnicities in 2007, what kept the route ticking over until the changes in 2010 was the Cobalt. Now by looking at the timetable, the 308 is timetabled to take 32 (38 peak time) minutes to Rake Lane Hospital and the 309 is timetabled to take 36 minutes (42 peak time). But, the 308 contrary to what the timetable states, it actually takes about the 40 - 45 minute mark during the peak times and 33 minutes off peak. That's about the time the 309 takes and despite it doing so, passengers still have the perception that the 308 is faster than the 309 despite the 309 being at maximum, 3 or so minutes slower. GNE need to get some decent marketing out in the areas between Rake Lane and Blyth to make full use if the double deckers. They're very efficient with regards to ticketing and boarding and have a timetable in place that could cope with a full double deck and keep to time. Look at the Tynemet students. I remember getting the 308 one morning when I lived near Billy Mill a few year back and about nearly the whole bus got off at Willington Square and would've had to walk about 10 minutes to get to the back entrance. The 309 would've dropped them off right outside on B.Hill Drive within walking distance. The 309 is doing well but to make it even better, GNE need to improve the marketing east of Rake Lane to Blyth inparticular to really make a success out of it. They need to get the following reasons out to people why to use the 309:
- New Buses
- High back seating
- Free Wi-Fi
- Phone and Laptop charging points
- Next stop announcements
- Similar journey times to Arriva's 308
- Travel on 309, 310 and 58 (to Newcastle) for £3.65 per day or £12.50 per week
- Only 1 zone daily, monthly, weekly or yearly ticket required to Metro Centre if travelling from North Tyneside or Newcastle. Can be used on fast service TEN or any other service to Metro Centre from Eldon Square and or X66 from Gateshead. 2 zones required from Northumberland but no other tickets required.
- Cheaper daily and weekly travel on Service 309 if only using service 309 (people who'd normally only use service 308), particularly if going cross border into Seaton Sluice and Blyth. Saver also valid om 310 and 58 to Newcastle.
- Stops directly outside Tynemet.
- Students can apply for Get Around card and travel for as little as £3.65 per day or £15.40 when bought on the bus. Even cheaper if bought online.
- Cheaper single fares for Students who apply for Get Around card
- Wheelchair and buggy friendly with space for both.
RE: Go North East - Latest