(19 Jul 2023, 1:18 pm)Bazza wrote Does the current uncertainty over the effect the election of a new North East Mayor will have on the provision of bus services in the area make the sale of Arriva Northumbria in the short term unlikely, or could a possible bidder see it as an opportunity worth a punt?

That is part of the 'problem', although it should be pretty clear where the direction of travel in terms of regulation is heading.

I very much doubt, like the botched QCS, ARRIVA would keep control of their lucrative express services into Tyne and Wear, at least commercially

So, I see them hanging on until whatever new possible framework exists and then bailing.