(18 Nov 2025, 4:12 pm)Storx wrote Not too sure, wouldn't be surprised though - I can't think of anything off the top of my head which would beat it tbh.

I wouldn't be surprised either.

Maybe you're right about the 308 too. 

Until 2019 when Martijn unleashed the reigns to try and shake the 'secondary image' off the 309 - GNE made money the following ways:

* Cobalt peak times - wouldn't be unusual to see fully loaded 309 & X39 deckers especially before Utilitywise collapsed

* High Farm on the 310

Everything else on both routes was a bonus. GNE weren't too bothered about making the 309 more attractive over the 308.

GNE did put a dent into the 308 in March 2019 - but wasn't sustainable long term as they couldn't maximise driving hours due to the remote reliefs. GNE eventually realised they could ditch the 57 and merge Hadrian Park (311) into the traditional Coast Road corridor.

This would've put Arriva at advantage with the 308 if covid didn't happen having the 15 minute service to Blyth & North Tyneside over GNE's 20 minute frequency.