I think as per usual the biggest problem creator is nexus.
They state the contract vehicles, timetables and companies to be used.
Just remember we have had these same conversations about Nexus timetables being so unreliable that they may as well not have one on the 317, 701 and now the 18. Just to name a few.
The 701 has quietly had a timetable frequency reduction to 20 mins from 15 mins to account for delays. But they didn't tell anyone. The delays are only partially due to City Transports vehicles. Even when GNE were running them they were extremely delayed daily.
Also I'm surprised Stagecoach weren't in the running to get the emergency contract considering they could've temporarily used their yutongs to make the contract viable not needing fuel.
RE: Northstar