(02 Apr 2026, 11:27 am)Busadvocate wrote Isn't it only Nexus contracts that specify capacity using the maximum including standing? It does seem strange practice.
Do Nexus contracts have a maximum age for buses? Age isn't a perfect indicator of the quality of the bus, but it is a simple start. Things like this will need to be got right in the process for awarding franchising contracts.
Of course, sadly, in recent years nearly all operators in the north east have had (or still have) maddening episodes of non-trivial lost mileage due to "no serviceable bus" or "no driver" - far more important for passengers than the details of the bus.
When I used to do the 4274 scholars in Durham, the contract was for a minimum number of seats (40) and Euro 5 or better. I'm unsure if there was an age limit, but did use a Scania L94 a couple of times on the route and they were 54 plates. I remember once breaking down and someone sent one of the second hand Citaros which didn't have enough seats....
The council were regularly at the school checking (as were VOSA who were very thorough). Griersons also had a contract at the same school, not sure what their specification was but they were not Euro 5 or better and nor were the vehicles Disabled Friendly (whatever the regulations are).