I don't think the 301 requires decker's across the full route as if anything it is a "Supplementary Service" between Newcastle-Wallsend with other Stagecoach Services/Metro providing capacity where needed, you then have a number of service options via Bus between North Shields and Whitley Bay along with the Metro.

Currently where I do think it could benefit from deckers on the existing frequency is between Newcastle-MetroCentre only equally to the same token a frequency increase with short runs on this section of the route numbered as 302 would be better overall with a 12 minute frequency justifiable with during peaks and every 15 minutes during off-peaks.

The solution would be splitting the 301 into two services MetroCentre-Newcastle / Newcastle-Whitley Bay which would improve reliability as delay on the Coast won't then effect service at the other end of the route as I have seen multiple occasions where services have terminated at Gateshead.

In turn frequency would better match service demand and corridors get a stronger service without wasting buses on weaker sections of the route, reliability is improved with a hopeful boost to passenger numbers and reducing operational risk to the business.