Here is an "out there" idea.
Extend the V5 (minus templetown, due to timing constraints) to Newcastle via Rowlands Gill, Winlaton Mill, Swalwell & Scotswood Road. (Obviously you would have to double back through Medomsley and onto the B6310) .
If you ran it half-hourly you could have standalone with a PVR of 5,
RE: Go North East: Service Suggestions v2
Twitter: @ASX_Terranova
Blog: https://asxterranova.home.blog/
Blog: https://asxterranova.home.blog/