(30 May 2026, 11:40 pm)PH - BQA wrote While I agree that these 6 MMCs should be in service prior to Silverstone, it does make sense (even if you don't like it) to prioritise the depot with a significantly more demanding set of routes. 

I'd anticipate that Blyth will likely be fully electrified, hence the extensive trial of the E400EV. If that is their plan, then realistically you'd think there'll be one big order in the coming years to see off the DB300s. 

In terms of the single deckers being used, this is an issue Arriva wide. They don't have enough deckers, so this 2026 order should begin to rectify that. I imagine the 6 Blyth E400MMCs are to replace 1500-1505, with the BYDs replacing the remaining 57/58 plate E400s and any other Pulsars. Outside of the region, but the Luton MMCs are replacing B7RLE saloons on the 321 - another order to deal with capacity issues. 

Agreed that 1499 is an absolute state, and should be nowhere near a service which hospital staff use. The thing is disgusting inside, and it's yet another sign that ANE management could not care less about vehicle presentation or cleanliness.

Can't see 1500-1505 going mind, not yet.

7601-7608, 7611-15, 7557/8/60/2, 7501/3/6/9, 1389/90/1/2/3/1404/19/63/80/93/5/6, 7541-52, 7596/7

That's what's going imo.

The only missing bit is do the 7541-52 go to Yorkshire and if they do what's leaving Ashington to Blyth. Is it the E400's or is it a chunk of the 72 Plate E400MMC's as both could go really.