(08 Feb 2025, 11:24 pm)Storx wrote Yeah must admit I did think about the length but the 6/7 do a similarish route bar slightly further South and they cope alright so I guess it's doable. I do think it would do alright the section from the Great Park to Byker, at least, to be honest. The 553 is busy enough as it and I'd imagine people in the Great Park would be happy with that link.

Could even go further and convert the Great Park white elephant car park into a NHS Car Park and let staff use it to get to the Freeman. I know there's serious issues with lack of parking for staff so could be a fix for it, even known it's a 20 minute or so bus ride.

The NHS fund the 553 and I don't think they'd want to change to this suggestion for the simple reason that the length of it would mean the chances of delays are greater. The 553 already has issues keeping to timetable at peak times, and it is an important service along with the H for getting NHS staff between locations. Delays cost them money and productivity, which is why the contracts are value for money for them.