(26 Mar 2014, 11:23 pm)AdamY wrote I get the point you're trying to make but I really don't think that the 57/58 have that much in common.
They share similar routes between Newcastle and Split Crow Road before diverging. Both routes then converge on Woodburn towards Staneway (where they briefly diverge again) before heading down Wealcroft to Fewster Square then onto Meresyde. After Meresyde, the two routes split with the 57 going to Wardley; and the 58 to Heworth.
As I don't use the 57 (I think the last time I used it was around 15 years ago) I have no idea what passenger numbers are like so there may well be some scope for improvement. However, I have delivered to houses around Beacon Lough Estate and the housing is quite dense. From this I'd assume that the 57 was reasonably well used by residents of the estate.
If the routes were changed what would you suggest? - I really can't think of anything which wouldn't add extra time onto either route.
I imagine anyone waiting between Meresyde - Woodburn heading towards Gateshead will have a preferred bus.
Others may get the first bus that arrives.
A modern, frequent 58 or the quieter 57.
I haven't checked the timetables, but I cant see there being much difference in journey time - maybe the 57 edges it.
There is also the 51/52 on Whealcroft.
Looking at the routes last night, I couldn't think of much variation, as the majority of Leam Lane is covered - apart from maybe sending it down Whitehill Drive and Colegate to Fewster Square, so it isn't following the 58 around the estate.