Does anyone know the buses that have recently left Leicester recently with the Enviro400s entering service?
I know that
B7TLs 32062 and 32063 have gone to Great Yarmouth and 32054/32055 to Potteries
And that B7Ls 66307, 66311 are with Potteries also
Thanks in advance ;D
32647 & 32650 on loan to Worcester, presumably not a departure though.
Quote from: John on May 19, 2014, 12:56:56 PM
Does anyone know the buses that have recently left Leicester recently with the Enviro400s entering service?
I know that
B7TLs 32062 and 32063 have gone to Great Yarmouth and 32054/32055 to Potteries
And that B7Ls 66307, 66311 are with Potteries also
Thanks in advance ;D
B7TLs 32061 and 32065 are also at Great Yarmouth and Potteries have 32053, 32056 and 32057 as well as the two above. Potteries have B7Ls 66302, 66303 and 66313 as well. B7RLE 66962 is also at Potteries, 66964 might also be there.
With the Redditch line shut in the summer, a Gemini has been seen at Redditch Station, potentially testing etc? There first job will be to cover two Tridents loaned to hereford for a festival down that way
Quote from: Cheese on May 19, 2014, 08:17:19 PM
Quote from: John on May 19, 2014, 12:56:56 PM
Does anyone know the buses that have recently left Leicester recently with the Enviro400s entering service?
I know that
B7TLs 32062 and 32063 have gone to Great Yarmouth and 32054/32055 to Potteries
And that B7Ls 66307, 66311 are with Potteries also
Thanks in advance ;D
B7TLs 32061 and 32065 are also at Great Yarmouth and Potteries have 32053, 32056 and 32057 as well as the two above. Potteries have B7Ls 66302, 66303 and 66313 as well. B7RLE 66962 is also at Potteries, 66964 might also be there.
Thanks
@Cheese, that's brilliant :)
Volvo B7TL's 32058/32059/32064 all still see service in Leicester mainly on the 38/38a and 88/88a.
33508 and a 22 branded E400 are off the road at the minute but when they enter service the B7TL's may depart.
66306 and 33610 are in service in The Potteries now from Leicester
Quote from: stuartn on May 22, 2014, 11:02:36 AM
Volvo B7TL's 32058/32059/32064 all still see service in Leicester mainly on the 38/38a and 88/88a.
33508 and a 22 branded E400 are off the road at the minute but when they enter service the B7TL's may depart.
Reported on the East Norfolk Bus Blog is that 32064 arrived at Great Yarmouth on Tuesday 3rd June.
32059 was the last of the Alx400's to depart yesterday - two of Leicester's Geminis are rumoured to also be going to Great Yarmouth soon but that remains to be seen.
Gemini 32646 is now in Leicester City Transport heritage livery
https://www.flickr.com/photos/55205968@N03/14306513008/in/photostream/
EDIT - A better pic https://www.flickr.com/photos/55205968@N03/14309781919/
Volvo B7RLE 66965 is now at Rotherham for the second heritage repaint.
32629 has transferred to Norwich.
66302 3 6 - 11 plus the above mentioned ALX400's are at Potteries
32058 9 61 - 65 plus 32629 and 32630 are all in service at Great Yarmouth. 32061 was at Ipswich initially but was swapped for native 30888
Quote from: Ashley on July 02, 2014, 06:30:37 PM
66302 3 6 - 11 plus the above mentioned ALX400's are at Potteries
32058 9 61 - 65 plus 32629 and 32630 are all in service at Great Yarmouth. 32061 was at Ipswich initially but was swapped for native 30888
Are you sure 32630 is at Great Yarmouth yet? It is due but the fleetlist dated today on the Norwich Bus Page has not got it included yet suggesting it may not have arrived just yet. Not reported as having arrived yet on the East Norfolk Bus Blog which usually reports the day new vehicles arrive.
Definately the smartest looking bus in the First Leicester fleet
http://wmbusphotos.com/FirstLeicester/32646.html
Quote from: Cheese on July 02, 2014, 07:30:05 PM
Quote from: Ashley on July 02, 2014, 06:30:37 PM
66302 3 6 - 11 plus the above mentioned ALX400's are at Potteries
32058 9 61 - 65 plus 32629 and 32630 are all in service at Great Yarmouth. 32061 was at Ipswich initially but was swapped for native 30888
Are you sure 32630 is at Great Yarmouth yet? It is due but the fleetlist dated today on the Norwich Bus Page has not got it included yet suggesting it may not have arrived just yet. Not reported as having arrived yet on the East Norfolk Bus Blog which usually reports the day new vehicles arrive.
32630 still in service in Leicester on 07/07/2014.
32061 wasn't at Ipswich initially. It was at Great Yarmouth (initially), went on loan to Ipswich but has now returned to Great Yarmouth.
Quote from: Tony on July 05, 2014, 08:31:40 PM
Definately the smartest looking bus in the First Leicester fleet
http://wmbusphotos.com/FirstLeicester/32646.html
Gemini 32645 has joined 32647 at Worcester to cover for rail replacement work. Can't imagine 32646 coming over too now to join the sequence!! Be good if Worcester had a Enviro or Trident painted in Midland red colours like was done previously.
Volvo B7RLE 66965 - KX05 MJF has been returned to First Leicester following repaint, at Rotherham, into 1924 Tilling Stevens style livery. The bus carries fleet number 5.
66965 and the other heritage repaint, 32646, should be taking part in a "90th Anniversary of Motorbuses" cavalcade, along with any other heritage buses which show up, on July 24th, 2014 (90 years to the day that motorbuses commenced operation in the city). It should start from the Town Hall at 1130 hours before heading up to St. Philip's Church (Evington Road / Evington Lane), then onto the racecourse for an event and then back into the city. It's an invitation only job, but there's nothing to stop people turning out to photograph proceedings should they so desire.
Could some kind person provide a list of the vehicles that have left Leicester, or been withdrawn at Leicester, that corresponds with the receipt of the 35 Enviro400s !
(I would be very grateful).
Quote from: DD12 on August 23, 2014, 06:44:04 PM
Could some kind person provide a list of the vehicles that have left Leicester, or been withdrawn at Leicester, that corresponds with the receipt of the 35 Enviro400s !
(I would be very grateful).
32053 - 57 to potteries at Newcastle
32058 - 65 to eastern counties at great Yarmouth
32629 30 41 42 to eastern counties
66302 - 14 to potteries at Newcastle
66962 - 64 to potteries at Newcastle
Quote from: Ashley on August 23, 2014, 06:51:40 PM
Quote from: DD12 on August 23, 2014, 06:44:04 PM
Could some kind person provide a list of the vehicles that have left Leicester, or been withdrawn at Leicester, that corresponds with the receipt of the 35 Enviro400s !
(I would be very grateful).
32053 - 57 to potteries at Newcastle
32058 - 65 to eastern counties at great Yarmouth
32629 30 41 42 to eastern counties
66302 - 14 to potteries at Newcastle
66962 - 64 to potteries at Newcastle
66841, 66845 and 66849 all went back to Potteries,
32628/32631/32640/32641/32642 all went to Essex,
32630 is still in Leicester and was on the 25/26 yesterday complete with the grubby rear advert still.
Thanks Ashley and stuartn;
As soon as I can find my BBP First fleet book I'll update it and look at totals etc. -
( I didn't know if I'd get an answer, and that was really quick - THANKS )
23020 - YN54 APK, an Irizar bodied Scania K114, is currently at First Leicester's Abbey Lane depot.
Asking in advance to avoid a wasted journey, could somebody keep an eye out for 66315 and 66321 to clear the set, thanks in advance
66842 is now at Leicester's Abbey Lane depot and one more expected. 32630 thought to have already departed to Potteries and 37146 expected to move in the same direction too.
66847 is now at Leicester's Abbey Lane depot.
32647 now in new livery
10 E400's are transferring to Bristol "as soon as possible. Route 74 E400's to lose their branding
Quote from: Ashley on December 15, 2014, 02:37:50 PM
10 E400's are transferring to Bristol "as soon as possible. Route 74 E400's to lose their branding
What is expected to release these from Leicester?
The FL fleet upgrade didn't last long
Quote from: Winston on December 15, 2014, 02:56:02 PM
Quote from: Ashley on December 15, 2014, 02:37:50 PM
10 E400's are transferring to Bristol "as soon as possible. Route 74 E400's to lose their branding
What is expected to release these from Leicester?
The FL fleet upgrade didn't last long
The answer I got was "saloons" would be ironic if it was ALX400's but my guess would be Geminis, well we can all guess. Does seem abit wasteful spending time and money investing in an upgrade that is to be potentially reversed
Quote from: Ashley on December 15, 2014, 03:27:33 PM
Quote from: Winston on December 15, 2014, 02:56:02 PM
Quote from: Ashley on December 15, 2014, 02:37:50 PM
10 E400's are transferring to Bristol "as soon as possible. Route 74 E400's to lose their branding
What is expected to release these from Leicester?
The FL fleet upgrade didn't last long
The answer I got was "saloons" would be ironic if it was ALX400's but my guess would be Geminis, well we can all guess. Does seem abit wasteful spending time and money investing in an upgrade that is to be potentially reversed
'Saloons' is old fashioned talk for Single Deck, so I doubt it will be ALX400s or Geminis, more likely the be B7RLE/Eclipse of a similar age
Quote from: Ashley on December 15, 2014, 03:27:33 PM
Quote from: Winston on December 15, 2014, 02:56:02 PM
Quote from: Ashley on December 15, 2014, 02:37:50 PM
10 E400's are transferring to Bristol "as soon as possible. Route 74 E400's to lose their branding
What is expected to release these from Leicester?
The FL fleet upgrade didn't last long
The answer I got was "saloons" would be ironic if it was ALX400's but my guess would be Geminis, well we can all guess. Does seem abit wasteful spending time and money investing in an upgrade that is to be potentially reversed
Typical First again, 'robbing off Peter to pay Paul'.
Even with all the new vehicle deliveries, there is still insufficient capacity around group to be able to cascade anything half decent due to years of under investment, and selling the London Op's and source of mid life vehicle has only exaggerated the problem
Quote from: Winston on December 15, 2014, 03:31:56 PM
Quote from: Ashley on December 15, 2014, 03:27:33 PM
Quote from: Winston on December 15, 2014, 02:56:02 PM
Quote from: Ashley on December 15, 2014, 02:37:50 PM
10 E400's are transferring to Bristol "as soon as possible. Route 74 E400's to lose their branding
What is expected to release these from Leicester?
The FL fleet upgrade didn't last long
The answer I got was "saloons" would be ironic if it was ALX400's but my guess would be Geminis, well we can all guess. Does seem abit wasteful spending time and money investing in an upgrade that is to be potentially reversed
Typical First again, 'robbing off Peter to pay Paul'.
Even with all the new vehicle deliveries, there is still insufficient capacity around group to be able to cascade anything half decent due to years of under investment, and selling the London Op's and source of mid life vehicle has only exaggerated the problem
I SUSPECT we might see quite a lot of transfers around the First group at the end of this month due to the DDA deadline for single-deckers, (under 7.5 tonnes I think), and some might seem illogical, and some short-term, and with some compensatory adjustments as time goes by.
There are 3 Caetano darts at Hereford still, which I am informed are non-compliant.
Quote from: Winston on December 15, 2014, 02:56:02 PM
Quote from: Ashley on December 15, 2014, 02:37:50 PM
10 E400's are transferring to Bristol "as soon as possible. Route 74 E400's to lose their branding
What is expected to release these from Leicester?
The FL fleet upgrade didn't last long
It appears Leicester are to receive 12 59 plate B7RLE Eclipse from Bristol in Exchange (69435/6/49-56/59/60). Actually lools like Leicester may have got the better end of the deal!
Quote from: Tony on December 26, 2014, 03:54:28 PM
Quote from: Winston on December 15, 2014, 02:56:02 PM
Quote from: Ashley on December 15, 2014, 02:37:50 PM
10 E400's are transferring to Bristol "as soon as possible. Route 74 E400's to lose their branding
What is expected to release these from Leicester?
The FL fleet upgrade didn't last long
It appears Leicester are to receive 12 59 plate B7RLE Eclipse from Bristol in Exchange (69435/6/49-56/59/60). Actually lools like Leicester may have got the better end of the deal!
Apparently some of the B7RLE's have arrived at Leicester
Quote from: Ashley on December 28, 2014, 09:02:33 PM
Quote from: Tony on December 26, 2014, 03:54:28 PM
Quote from: Winston on December 15, 2014, 02:56:02 PM
Quote from: Ashley on December 15, 2014, 02:37:50 PM
10 E400's are transferring to Bristol "as soon as possible. Route 74 E400's to lose their branding
What is expected to release these from Leicester?
The FL fleet upgrade didn't last long
It appears Leicester are to receive 12 59 plate B7RLE Eclipse from Bristol in Exchange (69435/6/49-56/59/60). Actually lools like Leicester may have got the better end of the deal!
Apparently some of the B7RLE's have arrived at Leicester
They're believed to be 69436, 69449 & 69450 - 69435 may also be at Abbey Lane too.
Quote from: stuartn on December 28, 2014, 11:07:46 PM
Quote from: Ashley on December 28, 2014, 09:02:33 PM
Apparently some of the B7RLE's have arrived at Leicester
They're believed to be 69436, 69449 & 69450 - 69435 may also be at Abbey Lane too.
33560, 33564 and 33566 have now arrived in Bristol, still with Leicester route branding
69450 entered service yesterday (2nd Jan) on service 94 and is on the 94 again today: www.facebook.com/LeicestershireTransportUpdates/photos/620726268059956/
33554 has been reported to have been exchanged for 69435
I haven't paid alot of attention to my Yahoo inbox of late but 69452 69454 and 69459 have arrived from Bristol this last week or two
From previous posts/Flickr, I see that these are the transfers in/out
Out
33554
33560
33564
33566
Do we know the others that have left?
In
69435
69436
69449
69450
69452
69454
69455
69459
With these still to come, or not reported yet
51, 53, 56, 60
Quote from: John on January 29, 2015, 11:31:36 AM
From previous posts/Flickr, I see that these are the transfers in/out
Out
33554
33560
33564
33566
Do we know the others that have left?
In
69435
69436
69449
69450
69452
69454
69455
69459
With these still to come, or not reported yet
51, 53, 56, 60
Other ones to have left for Bristol are 33547/56/65/69/71. 69451/3 have been reported as leaving Bristol so should be at Leicester.
Quote from: Cheese on January 29, 2015, 02:31:11 PM
Quote from: John on January 29, 2015, 11:31:36 AM
From previous posts/Flickr, I see that these are the transfers in/out
Out
33554
33560
33564
33566
Do we know the others that have left?
In
69435
69436
69449
69450
69452
69454
69455
69459
With these still to come, or not reported yet
51, 53, 56, 60
Other ones to have left for Bristol are 33547/56/65/69/71. 69451/3 have been reported as leaving Bristol so should be at Leicester.
33506 33508 and 33550 are the last three at Leicester, unless they've gone since Monday, ive had nothing on email yet
69436 was involved in an incident yesterday morning which has caused some damage to the bus.
http://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/Large-scaffold-tower-collapses-Charles-Street/story-25935311-detail/story.html
32097 is currently in Cornwall.
Talk on the East Mids Yahoo group
3x B7TL/ALX400's may be going to Essex in a swap for what I assume will be B7RLE's
7x Streetlites due here this year
On 13/05/2015, 32087 made the move from Leicester to Essex. 66820 went in the opposite direction.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on May 14, 2015, 01:29:24 AM
On 13/05/2015, 32087 made the move from Leicester to Essex. 66820 went in the opposite direction.
Do you know which other two are going/coming?
On 19/05/2015, 32068 moved from Leicester to Essex and 66805 went in the opposite direction.
32645 is believed to be back at Leicester with 32067 thought to be heading in the opposite direction, to Worcester.
Apparently Leicester might have new buses this year...
Quote from: the trainbasher on May 29, 2015, 01:01:33 PM
Apparently Leicester might have new buses this year...
7 Microwaves. I mean Streetlites
The Streetdecks expected here later in the year are expected to be 35151-35159. May be of interest.
Ex-Manchester StreetLites 63101-5 are due at Leicester. 3 are already there today
Quote from: John on July 28, 2015, 03:58:38 PM
Ex-Manchester StreetLites 63101-5 are due at Leicester. 3 are already there today
Beat me to it John. You know you've made it when you get second hand Streetlites.
Hopefully more B7's for Potteries.
Quote from: John on July 28, 2015, 03:58:38 PM
Ex-Manchester StreetLites 63101-5 are due at Leicester. 3 are already there today
All five present at Abbey Lane.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on June 18, 2015, 09:34:50 PM
The Streetdecks expected here later in the year are expected to be 35151-35159. May be of interest.
Sure they're all for Leicester?
ALX400 bodied Volvo B7TLs 32069, 32070 and 32071 off to Bath today.
The UK Buses fleetlist for First Midlands shows that Streetlites 63345-63366 are "awaiting delivery" here. Anybody know if thats true?
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on July 31, 2015, 11:42:57 PM
The UK Buses fleetlist for First Midlands shows that Streetlites 63345-63366 are "awaiting delivery" here. Anybody know if thats true?
The BBP First Bus Handbook 2015 shows 63345-57 as due for Worcester, and the rest for Leicester, but since it's publication there has been a strong rumour - on midlandred.net that Worcester is to get four of the StreetDecks expected by Leicester WITH the possibility of four of the streetlites going in exchange to Leicester.
In the last week, Leicester has received 5 pre-used streetlites from "up-north".
Worcester is apparently still expecting 9 new streetlites, some at least branded for route 44.
With a large number of cascades due by First, around the country (or within regions), what "any of us end up with" could be anyone's guess !
I'm guessing there could be quite a few temporary allocations in the coming months.
Add-in the errors and discrepancies normally found in online fleet lists ...... !!
Is there any date or just a month of the year that the new Streetdecks/Streetlites are due to be arriving
Quote from: Dylanbusboy45 on August 01, 2015, 07:46:36 PM
Is there any date or just a month of the year that the new Streetdecks/Streetlites are due to be arriving
Not yet.
Ok
Talk of 5 more E400's going to Bristol in exchange for 5 Eclipse 2's. The 14A branded deckers have been debranded.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on August 11, 2015, 06:16:43 PM
Talk of 5 more E400's going to Bristol in exchange for 5 Eclipse 2's. The 14A branded deckers have been debranded.
And that's all it is at this stage: TALK.
The 14 / 14A branding has been removed from one of the E400s. 33504 being the bus in question.
Revised livery for Leicester, with 66805 and 66970 being the first two repainted:
https://www.facebook.com/leicesterbuspage/photos/pcb.1036945279672255/1036945263005590/?type=1
https://www.facebook.com/leicesterbuspage/photos/a.807748065925312.1073741828.807449195955199/1036945443005572/?type=1
Three of the former Manchester StreetLites (63101, 63104 & 63105) entered service on route 74, on 11/08/2015.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on August 12, 2015, 09:19:36 AM
Revised livery for Leicester, with 66805 and 66970 being the first two repainted:
https://www.facebook.com/leicesterbuspage/photos/pcb.1036945279672255/1036945263005590/?type=1
https://www.facebook.com/leicesterbuspage/photos/a.807748065925312.1073741828.807449195955199/1036945443005572/?type=1
Three of the former Manchester StreetLites (63101, 63104 & 63105) entered service on route 74, on 11/08/2015.
I'd hardly call it a revised livery, route branding at best.
Quote from: T840MAK on August 13, 2015, 10:33:34 PM
I'd hardly call it a revised livery, route branding at best.
It's an improvement on faded Barbie livery but I bet the interior has seen no attention at all.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on August 13, 2015, 10:41:41 PM
It's an improvement on faded Barbie livery but I bet the interior has seen no attention at all.
It's a repaint, makes it look smart although I'm not too sure how they can class it as route branding when it's more like route liveried, then again since when has First been able to brand buses since they started repainting into Olympia. If it's anything like most First stuff then it will be the same tired interior with seats that have faded completely and could do with a completely remoquette. Keep on dreaming if you want it to happen though ;)
Quote from: T840MAK on August 13, 2015, 10:33:34 PM
I'd hardly call it a revised livery, route branding at best.
It's a livery which is different to what has come before, ergo it's a revised scheme. No indication whatsoever that it's route branding (or route liveried) in any way whatsoever.
Steetdeck deck 35104 is in this livery reported recently at the docks.
Quote from: tphi12000 on August 14, 2015, 08:55:38 AM
Steetdeck deck 35104 is in this livery reported recently at the docks.
Now branded in Bristol, I can't remember exactly what route it has been branded for though.
FYI - Generally when this comes it gets route branded before it enters service.
Quote from: T840MAK on August 14, 2015, 02:17:48 PM
Now branded in Bristol, I can't remember exactly what route it has been branded for though.
FYI - Generally when this comes it gets route branded before it enters service.
@T840MAK It is branded for the 70/71:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/95386260@N05/19919281533/in/dateposted/
Quote from: Winston on August 14, 2015, 02:26:39 PM
@T840MAK
It is branded for the 70/71:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/95386260@N05/19919281533/in/dateposted/
Thats the one, thanks Winston. I thought it might have been but thought not to post that incase it was incorrect.
Leicester StreetDeck 35154 has been sighted on delivery. Differing reports stating the registration is SN65 OKF and SN65 OKR.
Here's a link to a picture of the bus, taken on 01/09/2015, at Mallusk, County Antrim, before being taken to the docks: https://www.flickr.com/photos/ulsterbusphotos/20470934803/sizes/h/
Might be a good idea to pop along to the company's depot open day, this coming Sunday.
http://www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/leicester/travel_news/news_initiatives/?item=28921&conf=0
https://www.facebook.com/559898894062792/photos/gm.1657162334528822/1008980092488001/?type=1
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10154295243709657&set=p.10154295243709657&type=1&theater
StreetDeck 35154 - SN65 OKF is now at First Leicester's Abbey Lane depot.
All five of the E400s (33504, 33559, 33563, 33567 & 33568), which were route branded for the 14 / 14A, have now had their branding removed.
B7TLs 32066, 32071 & 32072 are currently in Worcester. 32071 was latterly on loan to Bath, for Great Western work.
Here's a view of 35154, in the wash / fuel bay at Abbey Lane, taken on 04/09/2015: https://www.flickr.com/photos/55205968@N03/21141739471/
Quote from: 47609FireFly on September 04, 2015, 08:28:11 AM
StreetDeck 35154 - SN65 OKF is now at First Leicester's Abbey Lane depot.
All five of the E400s (33504, 33559, 33563, 33567 & 33568), which were route branded for the 14 / 14A, have now had their branding removed.
B7TLs 32066, 32071 & 32072 are currently in Worcester. 32071 was latterly on loan to Bath, for Great Western work.
Are the B7TL's at Wyvern likely to return to Leicester as I hear the batch are to be transferred out at the end of the year to Essex, Bristol and Cornwall. Or is this just more talk?
Streetdeck looks good though. What route will have the pleasure?
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on September 04, 2015, 11:37:05 AM
Are the B7TL's at Wyvern likely to return to Leicester as I hear the batch are to be transferred out at the end of the year to Essex, Bristol and Cornwall. Or is this just more talk?
Streetdeck looks good though. What route will have the pleasure?
32066 is a permanent transfer to Worcester.
32071 & 32072 have now departed Worcester and are now at Lawrence Hill (Bristol), joining 32069 & 32070.
The 14/14A is expected to see the StreetDecks on it.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on September 12, 2015, 07:17:27 PM
32066 is a permanent transfer to Worcester.
32071 & 32072 have now departed Worcester and are now at Lawrence Hill (Bristol), joining 32069 & 32070.
The 14/14A is expected to see the StreetDecks on it.
Cheers for that
@47609FireFly
The East Midlands Yahoo Group states that 27 ALX400's are soon to move from Leicester to Bristol to cope with a sharp increase in patronage there. Does that include 32069-72 and what will replace them?
The same group mentions an order for 29 Streetdecks to be delivered March 2016.
The 29 StreetDecks next year is correct.
According to First's planned fleetlist for January there will only be one ALX400 B7TL remaining at Leicester; replacements appear to be this year's five StreetDecks, the forthcoming StreetLites and the seven 02-plate B7Ls which are to return from Potteries although this being First, all is no doubt subject to change!
35152 arrived at Abbey Lane depot today leaving just 35151 to appear. It is thought that the latter bus may be at the Roanza Mercedes dealership, on Trafford Park Road, Manchester.
Two of Leicester's StreetDecks should be doing VIP shuttle work, for the rugby, in Birmingham today.
Has 32067 been loaned to Worcester, as I saw it in the depot yard earlier?
Quote from: Alex on September 26, 2015, 01:42:42 PM
Has 32067 been loaned to Worcester, as I saw it in the depot yard earlier?
32067 is a WR bus isn't it?
Quote from: Cheese on September 26, 2015, 02:06:50 PM
32067 is a WR bus isn't it?
32066/67 are WR buses, any others previously mentioned as being on loan are now at Bristol.
35155 (Wright Streetdeck) spotted in BIRMINGHAM tonight, on Broad Street. (VERY short) Video to come...
Apologies for such a shoddy image; filmed on Snapchat, due to losing memory on my phone - luckily able to retrieve it still. ;)
https://www.flickr.com/photos/122377951@N02/21115464174/in/dateposted-public/
Quote from: clayderman on September 26, 2015, 10:01:35 PM
35155 (Wright Streetdeck) spotted in BIRMINGHAM tonight, on Broad Street. (VERY short) Video to come...
Apologies for such a shoddy image; filmed on Snapchat, due to losing memory on my phone - luckily able to retrieve it still. ;)
https://www.flickr.com/photos/122377951@N02/21115464174/in/dateposted-public/
It has been in Birmingham operating the Villa Park Rugby World Cup shuttles. I'm sure Worcester depot are using Streetlites on the shuttles too.
Quote from: Nathan on September 26, 2015, 10:12:43 PM
It has been in Birmingham operating the Villa Park Rugby World Cup shuttles. I'm sure Worcester depot are using Streetlites on the shuttles too.
Thought it might have something to do with the Rugby... Before it changed to NIS, it did say '*something* Shuttle' - I guess it must've been "Rugby Shuttle" - Still, there's something odd, yet weirdly satisfying about the appearance of the Streetdeck which makes them look nice on the streets of Brum... I really hope the B5 demo is the start of a NXWM/Wrightbus contract.
Quote from: clayderman on September 26, 2015, 10:19:18 PM
Thought it might have something to do with the Rugby... Before it changed to NIS, it did say '*something* Shuttle' - I guess it must've been "Rugby Shuttle" - Still, there's something odd, yet weirdly satisfying about the appearance of the Streetdeck which makes them look nice on the streets of Brum... I really hope the B5 demo is the start of a NXWM/Wrightbus contract.
Leicester's 35154 and 35155 were both in use on the rugby shuttles today.
Volvo B7TLs 32073, 32074, 32075 and 32076 departed Leicester last night (08/10/2015) and are now in Bristol.
StreetDecks 35152, 35153, 35154 and 35155 entered "normal" service, on routes 14 / 14A, on Wednesday (07/10/2015). 35154 managed an escape from the routes it is branded for, by operating the 1840 service 94 from the city centre to Glenfield!
35151 is still in Manchester.
32079 made the move from Leicester to PMT on 13/10/2015.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on October 14, 2015, 08:56:18 AM
32079 made the move from Leicester to PMT on 13/10/2015.
With 66312 reported to have returned to Leicester with it's front being painted in "fuchsia".
This is quite logical, as there has been some serious moaning on Potteries' Twitter feed since Keele University students went back about overcrowding/passengers being unable to board buses in the morning peak - which was always going to happen. It's just a shame that it has taken that for them to realise more double-deckers are needed, and quick.
Street decks have now started to appear on the 14/14A
Quote from: OH25 on October 16, 2015, 10:18:59 AM
Street decks have now started to appear on the 14/14A
StreetDecks have been at work on the 14/14A since 07/10/2015!
66312 is indeed now in Leicester, as is 66311.
32078 made the journey from Leicester to Potteries on 16/10/2015.
The fifth StreetDeck, 35151, arrived at Leicester's Abbey Lane depot this morning.
66307 is now at Leicester's Abbey Lane depot and has received a fuchsia front. 66310 has been in service in Leicester for a couple of days.
Also at Leicester is a Wright bodied Volvo (B7RLE?) registered BD14 KXT. It is plain white and is thought to be present to cover for StreetDeck rectification work. The bus is believed to have worked in Malta.
Yes it has
@47609FireFly .It was BUS368 in Malta
BD14 KXT entered service, on route 17, on 02/12/2015: https://www.flickr.com/photos/55205968@N03/22853334783/sizes/l/
StreetLites 63356 and 63358 reported at Heysham so maybe a delivery before the week is out.
Looks as though deliveries of new StreetLite have commenced:
63345 looks to be at Leicester's Abbey Lane depot, whilst 63356 looks to be at Padmore Street, Worcester. 63358 is at Heysham. Interesting because it was thought that 63345 was meant to be a Worcester bus and 63356 a Leicester bus.
63345 entered service today on route 16.
63349 entered service in Leicester on 12/12/2015.
63362 is sitting at Heysham.
32084 & 32096 have now gone to Bristol.
66820 is now back at Leicester following repaint at PMT.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on December 15, 2015, 11:47:35 AM
63349 entered service in Leicester on 12/12/2015.
63362 is sitting at Heysham.
32084 & 32096 have now gone to Bristol.
66820 is now back at Leicester following repaint at PMT.
Is it true that 66820 is transferring to PMT? Also are 32082/83 the buses replacing 66309/14 at PMT? Many thanks if you know.
StreetLites 63362 and 63363 are both now in Leicester, with 63363 already entering service today (17/12/2015) on route 16.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on December 15, 2015, 07:55:52 PM
Is it true that 66820 is transferring to PMT? Also are 32082/83 the buses replacing 66309/14 at PMT? Many thanks if you know.
Not aware of 66820 returning to PMT. As far as I know it is staying at Leicester.
Well, if I was a betting man, I would put money on 32082 & 32083 being for PMT. In the original "plan", PMT was to only receive three, 51 plate, ALX400 B7TLs from Leicester, they are already up to five. But like I said on this forum, the situation with loadings relating to Keele University has forced the company's hand a little bit. Fair play to the company for being dynamic in their decision making processes.
32098 now at Lawrence Hill garage in Bristol.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on December 20, 2015, 04:03:18 PM
32098 now at Lawrence Hill garage in Bristol.
Bristol crew bus 54601 (RA04 YGX) is currently on site at Abbey Lane, so expect more vehicles to depart today.
63349, 63355, 63365 and 63366 were all out in service yesterday.
63351 and 63352 are at Abbey Lane depot. 63350 and 63364 both last heard of in Belfast.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on December 22, 2015, 10:10:30 AM
Bristol crew bus 54601 (RA04 YGX) is currently on site at Abbey Lane, so expect more vehicles to depart today.
63349, 63355, 63365 and 63366 were all out in service yesterday.
Have 63353 and 63354 arrived yet as they were reported as being at the docks on Sunday?
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on December 22, 2015, 10:25:29 AM
Have 63353 and 63354 arrived yet as they were reported as being at the docks on Sunday?
63354 is at Abbey Lane.
Still outstanding are: 63350, 63353 and 63364.
63353 arrived at Abbey Lane just after noon, so that leaves just 63350 & 63364 to turn up.
32091 & 32094 are on their way to Bristol.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on December 22, 2015, 01:02:48 PM
63353 arrived at Abbey Lane just after noon, so that leaves just 63350 & 63364 to turn up.
32091 & 32094 are on their way to Bristol.
Cheers for that
@47609FireFly
32093 and 32099 are currently on their way to Bristol.
StreetLite 63180 is now at Leicester.
32083 and 32277 are currently on their way to Bristol.
63350/64 have apparently arrived at Abbey Lane.
The last two ALX's at Leicester are 32082 which is thought to be going to Potteries in exchange for 32092 expected to swap with 66827 from Basildon.
The other 4 B7's are apparently en route to Bristol today.
Wrightbus Streetdeck 35170 (SM65WNG) is apparently due here shortly, the first of 25 which are expected to replace the remaining E400's here.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on February 19, 2016, 06:50:35 PM
Wrightbus Streetdeck 35170 (SM65WNG) is apparently due here shortly, the first of 25 which are expected to replace the remaining E400's here.
2016 order starting to arrive already! I imagine E400s are going to WoE?
Quote from: DiamondDart on February 19, 2016, 11:01:41 PM
2016 order starting to arrive already! I imagine E400s are going to WoE?
Wrights must be back on the ball since the following batch are for Norwich and one of those is complete.
I could see the rest of the E400's going to WoE, be a shame if all their recently inherited ALX's were only temporary but we'll see. Not sure if the Geminis would be finished too or just the last 2 ALX's.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on February 19, 2016, 06:50:35 PM
Wrightbus Streetdeck 35170 (SM65WNG) is apparently due here shortly, the first of 25 which are expected to replace the remaining E400's here.
Re my original post. 35168-92 are all built and just awaiting shipment.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on February 20, 2016, 11:32:16 AM
Re my original post. 35168-92 are all built and just awaiting shipment.
Thanks for the info, is this batch all for Leicester do you know? I'm sure it's 35193 onwards for Norwich PinkLine:
http://www.norwichbuspage.com/2016/02/first-pink-line-streetdeck-photo.html
It's a very impressive investment for Leicester though on the back of the other StreetLites and StreetDecks in 2015.
Quote from: DiamondDart on February 20, 2016, 11:51:19 AM
Thanks for the info, is this batch all for Leicester do you know? I'm sure it's 35193 onwards for Norwich PinkLine:
http://www.norwichbuspage.com/2016/02/first-pink-line-streetdeck-photo.html
It's a very impressive investment for Leicester though on the back of the other StreetLites and StreetDecks in 2015.
All for Leicester as far as I know
@DiamondDart.
Streetdecks 35168/74/77/79/81 were noted at the docks at the weekend. The first 15 will go on loan to West of England for GWR rail replacement between Bristol and Bath. The remaining 10 will go directly to Leicester but it is hoped they'll all be ready to roll for the April 17th service changes linked to the opening of the new Haymarket Bus Station.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on March 21, 2016, 07:53:32 PM
Streetdecks 35168/74/77/79/81 were noted at the docks at the weekend. The first 15 will go on loan to West of England for GWR rail replacement between Bristol and Bath. The remaining 10 will go directly to Leicester but it is hoped they'll all be ready to roll for the April 17th service changes linked to the opening of the new Haymarket Bus Station.
Link below to recent photos taken at Heysham of these above Street Decks. Not my images I hasten to add
https://www.flickr.com/photos/nsf323alistair/albums/72157666015991411
The above mentioned Streetdecks are still at the docks but more have crossed since Monday.
35169-72/82/84/85/86/88
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on March 21, 2016, 07:53:32 PM
Streetdecks 35168/74/77/79/81 were noted at the docks at the weekend. The first 15 will go on loan to West of England for GWR rail replacement between Bristol and Bath. The remaining 10 will go directly to Leicester but it is hoped they'll all be ready to roll for the April 17th service changes linked to the opening of the new Haymarket Bus Station.
I see the opening of the Haymarket Bus Station has been put back a week to 24th April.
On the First website there are details of the Leicester City's routes that are going to use the new Bus Station but I cannot find any details on Arriva of their routes transferring in. There will be 23 bays I understand and LC will be using about half. So are any routes transferring from St Margarets?
E400's 33563/33568 have transferred to Basildon
Streetdecks 35185/86/87/88/91 have come directly from the docks and entered service this week.
The GWR Bristol to Bath rail reps should end in the early hours if engineering doesn't over run in which case the remainder should be driven up to Leicester during the week.
The E400's will be transferring to Essex as opposed to West of Bristol previously predicted. They should go to Hadleigh and Basildon
32082/32092 will transfer to First West Yorkshire.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on April 10, 2016, 09:01:42 AM
E400's 33563/33568 have transferred to Basildon
Streetdecks 35185/86/87/88/91 have come directly from the docks and entered service this week.
The GWR Bristol to Bath rail reps should end in the early hours if engineering doesn't over run in which case the remainder should be driven up to Leicester during the week.
The E400's will be transferring to Essex as opposed to West of Bristol previously predicted. They should go to Hadleigh and Basildon
32082/32092 will transfer to First West Yorkshire.
33553/63/68/73/74 all noted in service in Basildon this afternoon, most still with their yellow branding intact minus details for route 54.
The street decks are now being used on Route 22 and 54
Swear I saw branding for the 14/A on a street deck the other day
Quote from: Chris on May 10, 2016, 07:18:16 PM
Swear I saw branding for the 14/A on a street deck the other day
Correct, the 65 Plate Streetdeck's that they had last year, 35151-35155
32082/32092 now at Bradford.
55106 and 55107 still at Leicester today - in white - on service 20.
Quote from: Nathan on May 10, 2016, 07:28:33 PM
Correct, the 65 Plate Streetdeck's that they had last year, 35151-35155
35168 and 35169 are both also branded for the 14 and 14A as well as the original deliveries 35151-5.
35170-8 are branded for the 22 and 35179-87 are branded for the 54. 35188-92 are unbranded.
Streetdecks 35188, 35191 and 35192 have transferred to Bristol.
Quote from: NXC2153 on October 18, 2016, 03:36:43 PM
Streetdecks 35188, 35191 and 35192 have transferred to Bristol.
They are only on loan working a rail replacement contract & will return
Quote from: Winston on October 18, 2016, 03:38:10 PM
They are only on loan working a rail replacement contract & will return
The rail replacement for the Severn Tunnel finishes this weekend. The buses shown as transferring from Leeds to Bristol will finish up in Norwich.
Quote from: Winston on October 18, 2016, 03:38:10 PM
They are only on loan working a rail replacement contract & will return
ah I did think it was strange, thanks for clearing that up
Quote from: cheshire exile on August 30, 2016, 09:43:56 PM
55106 and 55107 still at Leicester today - in white - on service 20.
Both still there today also on the 20
62245 - Y938 CSF arrived at First Leicester's Abbey Lane depot today (13/02/2017) from Buses of Somerset. It is a Wright bodied Volvo B10BLE which was new to Midland Bluebird. It is expected to be converted into a driver training vehicle for one of the Midlands' depots.
62192 - X686 ADK arrived at First Leicester's Abbey Lane depot on 18/02/2017, from Buses of Somerset. It is a Wright bodied Volvo B10BLE which was new to Manchester, but spent time in Aberdeen. It is expected to be converted into a driver training vehicle for one of the Midlands' depots.
How come a number of the First Leicester buses the driver
wearing a seat belt t was mostly on the new buses & refurbished ones
ftp://
Quote from: Solo1 on March 13, 2017, 05:08:09 AM
How come a number of the First Leicester buses the driver
wearing a seat belt t was mostly on the new buses & refurbished ones
For safety. Firsts StreetLites and StreetDecks have them. Didn't know refurbished buses are getting them fitted too
Yeah, all the Streetlites and StreetDecks at Worcester have driver seatbelts now that must be worn. I think it is a good idea but it does take some getting used too, particularly as we have to deal with cash fares as well. Another annoyance with it is when you spend 4 hours in one, have a break then get in an Enviro or Centro etc which doesn't have a seatbelt, it feels weird.
A couple of pictures of Volvo B7RLE 69436 leaving Leicester on 14/08/2017, bound for Thornton's:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DHVoz63XYAA4Zs2.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DHVoz65XkAAz39_.jpg
After refurbishment at Thornton's, it will go to Worcester. Sister bus 69435 is already at Thornton's.
Wright bodied Volvo B10BLE 62245 - Y938 CSF, which was latterly with 'Buses of Somerset', has now started its new life as a training vehicle and very smart it looks too. Theses two pictures were snapped in St. James' Street, Leicester, on 29/08/2017:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DIbo59RW0AEPaTx.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DIbo7tnXcAAJwtX.jpg
Alexander bodied Volvo B10M trainer 60460 - G605 NWA looks to have left the fleet and returned 'home' to Sheffield for preservation.
Abbey Lane depot on 02/09/2017: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DIvqQgXXcAArt2s.jpg
Shows 66303 present which is a recent returnee to Leicester from PMT, 69449 awaiting departure to Thornton's for refurbishment and then transfer to Worcester and 62192 awaiting conversion to a driver training vehicle.
Other bits that may be of interest relating to Leicester:
63102 - currently on loan to Worcester.
66302 - now in service in Leicester after returning from PMT.
69451 - having bodywork preparation in Leicester prior to going off for refurbishment.
69453 - now in Worcester in an unrefurbished state.
69435 is now at Leicester, in a refurbished condition, sporting its new livery, pending transfer to Worcester. 69449 has gone off to Thornton's for refurbishment.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on October 19, 2017, 12:19:15 PM
69435 is now at Leicester, in a refurbished condition, sporting its new livery, pending transfer to Worcester. 69449 has gone off to Thornton's for refurbishment.
Thanks v.much FireFly, for these updates.
A refurbished 69436 is now at Abbey Lane depot and 69450 has gone off to Thornton's.
Following its loan to Worcester, 63102 is now back in service in Leicester.
69436 has gone off to Worcester and 69453, which was recently on loan to Worcester, is back in service in Leicester.
A refurbished 69450 made the move from Leicester to Worcester today (30/11/2017). That means there are now four refurbished B7RLEs at Worcester (69435, 69436, 69449 & 69450).
The 'bush telegraph' is saying that Volvo B7L 66323, which suffered an engine compartment fire earlier in the year, has been withdrawn. First one of Leicester's B7Ls to bite the dust if that is the case.
Currently sitting at Leicester's Abbey Lane depot is 64035 - LK07 CCN. Latterly with Berkshire, one presumes it has become surplus due to the size of the Slough operating shrinking.
A snap of 64012 - OIG 6942, originally LT52 WXA, at First Leicester's Abbey Lane depot on 21/03/2018:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DY1439OX0AAFIxQ.jpg
Quote from: 47609FireFly on March 21, 2018, 09:25:45 PM
A snap of 64012 - OIG 6942, originally LT52 WXA, at First Leicester's Abbey Lane depot on 21/03/2018:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DY1439OX0AAFIxQ.jpg
That one bound for Worcester?
'Glenfeld & New Parks' route branding has been removed from StreetLites 63356 & 63357.
StreetDecks 35189 & 35191 have gone on loan to Worcester to provide additional capacity for the Hay Festival.
Are the mercs now all in service at Worcester
Quote from: Solo1 on May 24, 2018, 04:33:23 PM
Are the mercs now all in service at Worcester
Don't think any are yet
Quote from: Solo1 on May 24, 2018, 04:33:23 PM
Are the mercs now all in service at Worcester
None have arrived yet. The running cards have been updated to say they should be operated with a Mercedes Citaro (all 'all day' route 35 running cards) so they can't be far away. A fair number of Solos are operating on the 35 currently and these are the buses to be replaced by the Mercedes. I think 3 or 4 Optares will be kept for the 31 and country routes.
StreetLite DRZ 9713 is once again in service in Leicester, as fleet number 63180. This time it's in allover white though. It's a loan vehicle for cover for StreetDeck 35185, which is off with an engine fault. 63180 is confined to route 17 due to its peculiar destination equipment.
Not my picture but a nice capture of Leicester's 35190 on loan to Slough: https://www.flickr.com/photos/londonbuses24/42767567234/
35186 is also on loan to Slough.
66972 has now been repainted and gained route branding previously carried by StreetLites 63356 & 63357. Picture here. taken on 18/07/2018, on Charles Street: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DiddjANW0AAtq_W.jpg
The painting of 66972 leaves just 32644, 32645 and 66973 in the old First livery.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on July 19, 2018, 11:26:31 AM
35186 is also on loan to Slough.
66972 has now been repainted and gained route branding previously carried by StreetLites 63356 & 63357. Picture here. taken on 18/07/2018, on Charles Street: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DiddjANW0AAtq_W.jpg
The painting of 66972 leaves just 32644, 32645 and 66973 in the old First livery.
Did any of the RLE's get an interior refresh as well?
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on July 19, 2018, 03:57:10 PM
Did any of the RLE's get an interior refresh as well?
Some have been received fresh seating moquette but that's about it.
63102 has returned from its repaint at Bus & Coach World in Blackburn. It now features a split fuchsia coloured front end and graphics for, 'Leicester Unlimited - £50 a Month'. 63103 is currently away in Blackburn for similar treatment.
Some pictures of 63102 snapped in Charles Street, Leicester, on 03/08/2018, by me are in the links below:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DjtpaC7X0AE7acD.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DjtpaC5X4AEA0eq.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DjtpaC5X0AAGKxv.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DjtpaCzW4AYhUXX.jpg
63103 has returned from Bus & Coach World, in Blackburn, following repaint.
63104 is currently away in Blackburn for repaint.
66973 has returned to Leicester following repaint and is now branded for 'Glenfield & New Parks', similar to sister 66972.
63104 and 63105 are now back in Leicester repainted.
StreetLite SN65 OLW is currently on loan to the company, covering for a defective sister vehicle. Snapped here, in Charles Street, on. 28/08/2018: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DlwKVa3XoAEyvb9.jpg
66323 was carted off for scrap, by PVS, today (13/09/2018). It was withdrawn following fire damage.
Mendip Xplorer liveried, Wright bodied, Volvo B7RLE 69438 - WX59 BYP was noted at First Leicester's Abbey Lane depot on 25/02/2019.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on February 26, 2019, 12:27:31 AM
Mendip Xplorer liveried, Wright bodied, Volvo B7RLE 69438 - WX59 BYP was noted at First Leicester's Abbey Lane depot on 25/02/2019.
I believe 66305/09/19 have been withdrawn already prior to further arrivals.
Part of Leicester's forthcoming LEZ being introduced.
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on February 26, 2019, 10:42:45 AM
I believe 66305/09/19 have been withdrawn already prior to further arrivals.
Part of Leicester's forthcoming LEZ being introduced.
66305 and 66309 have been off the road for a number of moths and have started to be stripped. 66319 has only recently bitten the dust, due to an engine failure.
69438 entered service in Leicester on 16/03/2019, working route 17, a route it has worked regularly since. I snapped these pictures, on Charles Street, on 19/03/2019:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/D2ECq2KWoAA9Wql.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/D2ECyfMXQAAlVhn.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/D2ECw-8WwAAwd6-.jpg
69442 - WX59 BYU arrived at Leicester's Abbey Lane depot on 04/04/2019.
Wright bodied Scania 61478 - P106 MFS has turned up at Abbey Lane depot.
69439 - WXX59 BYR is now in Leicester and in service.
Can anyone confirm if B9TL 36221 is at Leicester please ? -- --
it's now in the bustimes.org vehicle list for Leicester !
Quote from: DD12 on May 20, 2019, 06:45:59 PM
Can anyone confirm if B9TL 36221 is at Leicester please ? -- --
it's now in the bustimes.org vehicle list for Leicester !
No, it isn't in Leicester yet. It'll be on the bustimes.org list because of how real time information works.
69440 - WX59 BYS arrived at Abbey Lane depot, from Bristol, on 21/05/2019.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on May 21, 2019, 01:04:31 PM
No, it isn't in Leicester yet. It'll be on the bustimes.org list because of how real time information works.
Thanks very much FireFly for your reply.
However, I am confused -- -- do you mean that it is in the Leicester list because of an error / discrepancy (because of how the bustimes.org site "doesn't work perfectly"), or do you believe that it is due to transfer to Leicester ??
Thanks.
Quote from: DD12 on May 21, 2019, 01:30:47 PM
Thanks very much FireFly for your reply.
However, I am confused -- -- do you mean that it is in the Leicester list because of an error / discrepancy (because of how the bustimes.org site "doesn't work perfectly"), or do you believe that it is due to transfer to Leicester ??
Thanks.
There are a few new StreetLites on that list which are supposed to coming to Leicester too, not tracking yet so these might also have arrived or are imminent arrivals
Leicester might also get Worcester's 9 StreetLite Max's (to help replace the older B7L's?)
In return Worcester should be receiving 9 more Mercedes Citaro's to replace them.
Quote from: DD12 on May 21, 2019, 01:30:47 PM
Thanks very much FireFly for your reply.
However, I am confused -- -- do you mean that it is in the Leicester list because of an error / discrepancy (because of how the bustimes.org site "doesn't work perfectly"), or do you believe that it is due to transfer to Leicester ??
Thanks.
As I understand it, 36221, and three sister buses, are due to transfer to Leicester in time.
It is on the bus times list prematurely because of how a vehicle fleet list needs to be supplied to the real time organisation, to make real time work. I would imagine the operator of 'bustimes.org' has copied it across to Leicester's list despite it never having worked in Leicester.
Quote from: John on May 21, 2019, 02:16:53 PM
There are a few new StreetLites on that list which are supposed to coming to Leicester too, not tracking yet so these might also have arrived or are imminent arrivals
They are eventual arrivals, but NONE have arrived yet.
Quote from: willr7 on May 21, 2019, 05:15:31 PM
Leicester might also get Worcester's 9 StreetLite Max's (to help replace the older B7L's?)
In return Worcester should be receiving 9 more Mercedes Citaro's to replace them.
Don't think so regarding Worcester buses to Leicester.
66847 has now transferred to Doncaster.
Thanks v.much FireFly for the clarification and extra info. !
:)
Which was the StreetDeck that collided with a low bridge please,
-- and has it been repaired yet (anyone) ??
Thanks.
Quote from: willr7 on May 21, 2019, 05:15:31 PM
In return Worcester should be receiving 9 more Mercedes Citaro's to replace them.
Don't think Slough have any spare Mercedes Citaros. Total non runner for me.
Quote from: markcf83 on May 23, 2019, 03:59:38 PM
Don't think Slough have any spare Mercedes Citaros. Total non runner for me.
That's what I thought - but apparently the MD has confirmed we're getting 9 more Citaro's! Maybe they will come from elsewhere...
Quote from: DD12 on May 23, 2019, 01:27:58 PM
Which was the StreetDeck that collided with a low bridge please,
-- and has it been repaired yet (anyone) ??
Thanks.
Looking back at some images from the crash scene - It was 35174.
I'm guessing it has not re-entered service as there is no trace of it on the bus times tracker. So I guess it is still being repaired!
Quote from: willr7 on May 23, 2019, 10:39:52 PM
Looking back at some images from the crash scene - It was 35174.
I'm guessing it has not re-entered service as there is no trace of it on the bus times tracker. So I guess it is still being repaired!
Thanks again willr7 !! :)
Quote from: willr7 on May 23, 2019, 10:33:07 PM
That's what I thought - but apparently the MD has confirmed we're getting 9 more Citaro's! Maybe they will come from elsewhere...
The only other place I can remember them being at, bar Slough and Worcester, is Southampton. And unless they are getting new buses this year I doubt very much they'll be available.....
Quote from: markcf83 on May 24, 2019, 08:40:30 AM
The only other place I can remember them being at, bar Slough and Worcester, is Southampton. And unless they are getting new buses this year I doubt very much they'll be available.....
Southampton have only have two left and they have been stored for a long time. I can't see them being of use after the rest took so long with electrical problems for the same reason. Truro also has some, but they are council owned i believe. There's a few trainers dotted about but I can't see 8 of them being available.
My suggestion was that some of the Yourbus Citaros would be purchased. These were advertised for sale some time back, and don't appear to have sold. With no new route introductions AFAIK , they most likely still are for sale. With a mix of 62/13/64, they could be good modern buys to upgrade the Worcester fleet!
Quote from: willr7 on May 23, 2019, 10:39:52 PM
Looking back at some images from the crash scene - It was 35174.
I'm guessing it has not re-entered service as there is no trace of it on the bus times tracker. So I guess it is still being repaired!
I've seen a pic all be not a brilliant pic and it looks like it is back in Northern Ireland at the factory still damaged with tarpaulin sheets over the top deck
Quote from: Rich-82 on May 31, 2019, 01:49:26 AM
I've seen a pic all be not a brilliant pic and it looks like it is back in Northern Ireland at the factory still damaged with tarpaulin sheets over the top deck
Interesting, Thanks Rich. Wonder if it will ever get back on the road!😂
66842 has now transferred to Doncaster.
69441 - WX59 BYT arrived in Leicester on 11/06/2019.
66843 has now transferred to Doncaster.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on June 20, 2019, 12:17:14 AM
66843 has now transferred to Doncaster.
Thanks for these updates FireFly.
Do any of you know what's happened to 35151 and 35153. They've not been out since the start of the month.
32644 hasn't been out since the 17th, hopefully that not gone.
32643, 32644, 32645 & 32646 are all alive and well.
35153 is back in use. 35151 is still off for.
35169, 35178 & 35187 have all had their route branding removed, for routes 14/14A, 22 & 54 respectively, and had it replaced with a vinyl which promotes ticket purchasing via the company's app.
That seems like a stupid thing to do. 35187 makes sense but 178 and 169 don't as they are in the middle of the batch.
35154 and 35170 were both on the 54 today despite being branded for the 14/A and 22 respectively. Have these also been debranded I wonder. First seem to be debranding vehicles for a strange reason. 66973, branded for the 13, appeared on the 22 yesterday. It's getting messed up.
32644 had an oil leak yesterday while operating the 22. The end is near for the B7TLs
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on July 13, 2019, 05:55:30 PM
32644 had an oil leak yesterday while operating the 22. The end is near for the B7TLs
I don't think so.
A 15 year old bus is not near the end of its life
Quote from: Tony on July 13, 2019, 06:21:26 PM
I don't think so.
A 15 year old bus is not near the end of its life
Huh...
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on July 14, 2019, 08:52:40 AM
Huh...
First (nor other groups) do not write buses like B7TLs down over a 15 year life as shown by the fact First, Arrive, Stagecoach, NX and Go-Ahead are all operating double decks a lot older than 54 plate
Quote from: Tony on July 14, 2019, 09:24:41 AM
First (nor other groups) do not write buses like B7TLs down over a 15 year life as shown by the fact First, Arrive, Stagecoach, NX and Go-Ahead are all operating double decks a lot older than 54 plate
Clearly correct. It's back in service after the weekend off.
Withdrawn Volvo B7Ls 66303, 66305, 66309 & 66319 have all been moved from Leicester to Stoke.
69438 is currently away for repaint.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on July 26, 2019, 12:42:22 PM
Withdrawn Volvo B7Ls 66303, 66305, 66309 & 66319 have all been moved from Leicester to Stoke.
69438 is currently away for repaint.
Just repainted or being refurbished too?
Quote from: 47609FireFly on July 26, 2019, 12:42:22 PM
Withdrawn Volvo B7Ls 66303, 66305, 66309 & 66319 have all been moved from Leicester to Stoke.
69438 is currently away for repaint.
What about 66840? That made the move as well?
35153 is in the depot for repairs.
35169, which hasn't been out in a week or 2, is sitting in the corner of the depot.
69439 and 69441 are in the maintenance bays, but that may be just so they could run the Running day outside.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on July 26, 2019, 01:38:19 PM
Just repainted or being refurbished too?
Where the bus is presently located only deal with repaints.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on July 28, 2019, 09:14:25 AM
35153 is in the depot for repairs.
35169, which hasn't been out in a week or 2, is sitting in the corner of the depot.
69439 and 69441 are in the maintenance bays, but that may be just so they could run the Running day outside.
69439 is being prepared for repaint.
35169 has been out in the last week but bustimes.org doesn't reflect this.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on July 27, 2019, 07:15:28 PM
What about 66840? That made the move as well?
No, 66840 is still a Leicester allocated vehicle.
32645 either broke down or had a slight accident. It has been on Charles street for the past hour, with a mechanic van behind it. The driver and mechanic both were behind the vehicle clearing up what looked to be glass.
The 22 has fallen to pieces with it, with 45 not able to continue, and with the other buses being delayed, with some up to 40 minutes late.
63350 developed an oil leak when I travelled on it on the 25 at around 1. It was taken out of service and subbed with 66852.
Confirmation from the MD today states that;
- Leicester will get Worcester's 9 StreetLite Max's.
- Volvo B9TLs coming into Leicester will displace 32643-6 to Worcester while 4 of Worcester's Tridents will move to Essex
This is the current plan, but plans have the potential to change!
Pictures of 69438 have appeared after repaint, branded for the 18.
Please not this is not my photo.
Looks nice. I bet 69439-69442 are also getting this too, also, I wonder when/if 69437, 69443-69448 and 69457-69458 are coming up, and what they'll be branded for.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on August 14, 2019, 02:52:36 PM
Looks nice. I bet 69439-69442 are also getting this too, also, I wonder when/if 69437, 69443-69448 and 69457-69458 are coming up, and what they'll be branded for.
I've heard Bristol are keeping the others of the batch. Similar Eclipse 2s previously based at Bolton are rumoured to be transferring to Leicester
Quote from: Dylanbusboy45 on August 14, 2019, 02:58:39 PM
I've heard Bristol are keeping the others of the batch. Similar Eclipse 2s previously based at Bolton are rumoured to be transferring to Leicester
The Bolton one's have gone to FSY @ Sheffield
Quote from: Winston on August 14, 2019, 03:15:52 PM
The Bolton one's have gone to FSY @ Sheffield
Ah right ok. I can't keep up with all these movements at First at the moment :P
69438 has also entered service on the 18 today. As
@47609FireFly said, it's not been refurbished.
Quote from: Dylanbusboy45 on August 14, 2019, 03:42:38 PM
Ah right ok. I can't keep up with all these movements at First at the moment :P
I read the other day that a HY09 Registered B7RLE with South Wales is due to transfer to Leicester shortly. They are getting Ex Glasgow E200MMCs so more Volvos may be transferring to Leicester
Apparently a further 3 Streetlites from Manchester have transferred too.
63106, 63107 & 63108 arrived at Abbey Lane on 14/08/2019.
I've read that the 17's due a similar livery to the 18 (probably those Streetlites that arrived yesterday) and some 12-plate Volvos are due to arrive and be put in a yellow livery for the 88 and 88A.
I was thinking it would be clever they do that. I actually had in mind 69438 for the 18, 69439 for the 17, 69440 for the 88/A and 41/42 as spare. That doesn't make much sense, but I just had some strange idea of it.
Quote from: Winston on August 14, 2019, 03:15:52 PM
The Bolton one's have gone to FSY @ Sheffield
Winston
only six have gone to South Yorkshire - 69521-26 - which means that as yet, 69527-31, as well as 69537-39 (recently painted into Olympia, after working for some time in their as-acquired Eclipse purple) are unaccounted for. Those eight could well be the ones expected in Leicester (which would make sense).
Quote from: amodelofcontrol on August 17, 2019, 01:00:32 PM
Winston
only six have gone to South Yorkshire - 69521-26 - which means that as yet, 69527-31, as well as 69537-39 (recently painted into Olympia, after working for some time in their as-acquired Eclipse purple) are unaccounted for. Those eight could well be the ones expected in Leicester (which would make sense).
69527-31 & 69537-39 are at Oldham.
Quote from: Nathan on August 17, 2019, 03:05:07 PM
69527-31 & 69537-39 are at Oldham.
Thanks Nathan, bang goes that theory, then!
What is clear is that the Bolton sale has triggered an enormous set of cascades across the group, so I doubt we're done quite yet.
Having not been out since the 2nd, looks like 66313's the next B7L to be withdrawn.
Finally, a B7L I've actually been on.
According to bustimes, 63108 entered service yesterday.
Apparently 63180 also did according to bustimes.
However I don't believe either, as 108 appeared on the 13, with 180 on the 14. However, both journeys were duplicates of already operating services. 108 did the same run as 63345, and 180 did the same run as 63346.
I was confused when I saw that too. 63108 has been here for a week now along with 63106 and 63107 and having not been in service the entire time, I'm guessing they're being repainted into one of those upcoming new liveries, either the 17 one, in which case they'd always have one spare if something was wrong with one or the 88/88A one and 63358-63366 will also be getting that when they come up. I also didn't know we were getting another 63180.
I forgot to mention earlier that 69440 hasn't been out since the 12th so I'm guessing that's gone in for repaint now.
Yes, It was the same ish case when we were allegedly getting 36221, 63070/071/008/038 and whatever the other one was.
I do look forward to the 18 and 88/A livery's. I would care about the 17's, but I've done the entire 17, so I see no reason to ever go on it again.
63106 has entered service on the 88/A today. This one I do believe as it's run multiple journeys so far, and it's runs aren't shared with other vehicles. The livery nobody knows what it is yet, so it'll be a surprise for when we go to town.
63107 has also entered service today, also, like 63106, on the 88/A.
I hope they did a better job applying the contactless panels at the back on it and 63108. They did a terrible job on 63106.
What livery is it in?
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on August 24, 2019, 11:11:39 PM
What livery is it in?
I would imagine they are still in Urban 1 (Olympia) being from Greater Manchester. Then they will probably go away for refurb?
I hope they stay in Olympia tbh. It's a nicer livery, and isn't as in your fact as the current Leicester one.
32644 came out on the 22 for half a journey between Rushey Mead and City Centre.
Doesn't seem rare but the B7TLs hardly ever come out for service on Sundays.
It was subbed with 35172.
66840 came back out for the first time since its accident 5 months ago today, but only until around 10:30. It was on the 88A.
35179 went into the 22 for 2 runs this morning before being replaced by spare 35188.
35179 is branded for the 54, so it's rare and stupid for happening.
69439 has returned to traffic today, on route 18, as the second vehicle repainted into 'The Braunstone Bus' livery.
63106 has gone on loan to Worcester.
A couple of ex Leicester buses on the move. 32064 and 32629 have transferred from Eastern Counties to Essex and are both allocated to Colchester. (Yes, before anyone pipes up, I know 32629 was new to Northampton, but it was later reallocated to Leicester.)
Quote from: 47609FireFly on September 06, 2019, 09:25:07 AM
63106 has gone on loan to Worcester.
Thanks FireFly, it's helpful to know that it's a loan.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on September 06, 2019, 09:57:55 AM
A couple of ex Leicester buses on the move. 32064 and 32629 have transferred from Eastern Counties to Essex and are both allocated to Colchester. (Yes, before anyone pipes up, I know 32629 was new to Northampton, but it was later reallocated to Leicester.)
I'm more surprised 32064 is still in service even though it's 19 years old.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on September 06, 2019, 12:08:07 PM
I'm more surprised 32064 is still in service even though it's 19 years old.
Lots of the Ex Leicester batch are. Split between Eastern Counties, Essex, West Yorkshire and West of England
63108 is entering service today, with it starting in 5 minutes on the 10:30 38A.
63111-118 and 146 are in the Midlands and East england area, but unallocated to any depot yet.
These transferred alongside 63106/7/8, so they may be for Leicester.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on September 10, 2019, 07:51:34 AM
63111-118 and 146 are in the Midlands and East england area, but unallocated to any depot yet.
These transferred alongside 63106/7/8, so they may be for Leicester.
Yes, believe they are for use at Potteries though as they are parked up inside First's Newcastle depot/store.
35171 hasn't seen service since the 12th. Anyone know what's going on with itself and 35152/3?
69440 has entered service again today, also on the 18. 69441 is still being repainted, so I imagine it won't be long until 69442 go for repaint.
Unbelievable. First are scrapping the 20 from the 20th October.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on October 01, 2019, 09:45:18 PM
Unbelievable. First are scrapping the 20 from the 20th October.
To be fair to them it never had many passengers except to the Infirmary and back, and that's what the 88/A is for.
It's a shame arriva couldn't take it over, as I now hate Centrebus for a passion
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on October 02, 2019, 07:32:27 AM
To be fair to them it never had many passengers except to the Infirmary and back, and that's what the 88/A is for.
It's a shame arriva couldn't take it over, as I now hate Centrebus for a passion
Yep, I have done for years, and they should never have re-routed it last year. I bet the slower route and the cut frequency made more people walk to Hinckley Road or Fosse Road to get other services. Mind you, this and the withdrawal of the 19 last year left just the 50 and 51 to tackle that busy part of Narborough Road and I don't think they've coped too well.
You hate a company with a passion who are coming in to provide a commercial service, without public subsidy, to an area that First are withdrawing from? That's one of the most irrational statements I've come across! I'm sure you armchair experts have all the facts at your disposal such as revenue / passengers per hour / mile.
Meanwhile, 69382 and 69384 have arrived at Leicester's Abbey Lane depot from Cymru.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on October 03, 2019, 10:14:29 AM
You hate a company with a passion who are coming in to provide a commercial service, without public subsidy, to an area that First are withdrawing from? That's one of the most irrational statements I've come across! I'm sure you armchair experts have all the facts at your disposal such as revenue / passengers per hour / mile.
Meanwhile, 69382 and 69384 have arrived at Leicester's Abbey Lane depot from Cymru.
I don't hate Centrebus for that reason. I think that's it good that the service isn't being cut completely. What I hate is their driving standard and customer service.
Be interesting to see what they're for and if sisters are joining. In other news, 69441 is also back from repaint and 35186 is back from its accident.
66839 has caught fire this morning. It occurred outside Scraptoft Valley Primary School.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on October 14, 2019, 11:17:25 AM
66839 has caught fire this morning. It occurred outside Scraptoft Valley Primary School.
Oh dear. There's another one gone.
Yep. I keep forgetting to say but 66314 and 66321 have also left the fleet (been removed from bustimes anyway).
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on October 14, 2019, 07:40:46 PM
Yep. I keep forgetting to say but 66314 and 66321 have also left the fleet (been removed from bustimes anyway).
They haven't left the fleet, they are still allocated to Leicester, but are in reserve according to the fleetlist I ahve just received from First
Quote from: Tony on October 14, 2019, 07:48:16 PM
They haven't left the fleet, they are still allocated to Leicester, but are in reserve according to the fleetlist I ahve just received from First
May I ask how you receive these directly from First?
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on October 16, 2019, 12:26:49 AM
May I ask how you receive these directly from First?
I get it thanks to contacts I have made in 41 years working in the industry. First in general do not release it to enthusiasts. The copy I get is one First send to their tyre supplier.
Quote from: Tony on October 16, 2019, 09:28:23 AM
I get it thanks to contacts I have made in 41 years working in the industry. First in general do not release it to enthusiasts. The copy I get is one First send to their tyre supplier.
Oh, lucky you!
May I ask if there are any other unheard fleet changes, if you can say?
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on October 17, 2019, 12:03:22 AM
Oh, lucky you!
May I ask if there are any other unheard fleet changes, if you can say?
I post the entire group moves on the main site
Do any of you have an idea of what is on the 20 today? bustimes isn't working for Leicester for some reason,
Them reducing the 21 and cutting this, is a good way of them being able to not need so many vehicles, probably meaning we'll shortly see more departures most probably.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on October 18, 2019, 11:02:08 AM
Do any of you have an idea of what is on the 20 today? bustimes isn't working for Leicester for some reason, and as it's the last day I'd like to know.
Them reducing the 21 and cutting this, is a good way of them being able to not need so many vehicles, probably meaning we'll shortly see more departures most probably.
The last day's actually tomorrow but today they had 66805 and 66838. I wouldn't think they would as I think they're pretty short.
So the final 20s are 66805 and 66968.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on October 18, 2019, 11:10:32 AM
The last day's actually tomorrow but today they had 66805 and 66838. I wouldn't think they would as I think they're pretty short.
Yeah, I edited that.
The last 2 journeys are about to end, probably late due to the football.
69252 and 69303 arrived at Abbey Lane yesterday (22/10/2019), from Cymru.
Are any more due from South Wales?
I really don't see why we are getting 2007 and 08 vehicles. They'll be transferred sooner or later too probably.
Also it's a very random selection of 4 vehicles. 69252, 69303, 69382 and 69384
Some strange allocations this week. 32643 has gone on the 13 twice this week, along with 69442 on the 54 yesterday, for the full day. There has almost been a B7TL on the 38/A every weekday, which isn't usually as common as that.
35171 has now not been in service for around a month and a half.
66302 hasn't been out since the 17th, so the end seems to have come for it too sadly.
It's been removed from the list, which I guess confirms it. Also, I wonder what livery they're gonna put 69442 in. It can't say it's getting a facelift soon forever.
35171 has finally reentered service after something, don't ask me what. It displaced 63347 at around 1300.
Some interesting news.
66852, 66962, 66963, 66964, 66966 and 66967 will all sooner or later be transferring to Doncaster, just like 66842/5/7, to replace their B7L's.
Not sure what is replacing them all yet.
Where did you find this out? And it was 66843 that moved by the way, not 66845, that's still here for now.
I was talking to a bus enthusiast from Doncaster who has some ties with First. Quite a shame really, Leicester are loosing some good buses.
I don't really see why they can't just upgrade them to Euro 6.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on November 04, 2019, 07:33:47 AM
I was talking to a bus enthusiast from Doncaster who has some ties with First. Quite a shame really, Leicester are loosing some good buses.
I don't really see why they can't just upgrade them to Euro 6.
It is not that simple to 'Just upgrade them to Euro 6' It is also not cheap.
I don't know of a Euro 3 B7RLE that has had the upgrade yet, and the first one of any new type one of the retrofit companies does is expensive as there are all the development costs. It will also depend on the life expectancy of these vehicles. Why retrofit a vehicle spendimg a five figure sum on it when it can be run for the rest of its life unfitted.
Quote from: Tony on November 04, 2019, 08:00:25 AM
It is not that simple to 'Just upgrade them to Euro 6' It is also not cheap.
I don't know of a Euro 3 B7RLE that has had the upgrade yet, and the first one of any new type one of the retrofit companies does is expensive as there are all the development costs. It will also depend on the life expectancy of these vehicles. Why retrofit a vehicle spendimg a five figure sum on it when it can be run for the rest of its life unfitted.
What will Doncaster do to them?
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on November 04, 2019, 06:49:56 PM
What will Doncaster do to them?
Run them until they are life expired
Well, fair enough. It appears that 66964 and 66966 are the first to go.
First will be rising ticket prices from the 24th November. Day tickets rise to £4.50, with young person ones going up to £3.90. All mobile pricing will go up to the same as how it is onboard the bus, and year tickets will increase to £560.
They also have introduced a 2 trip ticket, for £4.20, which is diabolical considering for 30p more you can go on the bus for the entire day.
An allocation I've never seen on Mondays - Saturdays. A double decker, in the form of 35192, went onto the 17! It replaced 66304, which replaced 35192 on the 16/74.
StreetLite 63388 - SL16 RDX is now at Abbey Lane depot, from South Yorkshire.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on November 16, 2019, 12:38:58 AM
StreetLite 63388 - SL16 RDX is now at Abbey Lane depot, from South Yorkshire.
No regard for Matthew Kitching's memory or his family then when this was brought down.
On the EM Buses group.io forum Neil Eggleton (MD of First Leicester) posted this:
We're looking after some repairs for Sheffield - more to come. 63388 is for a head gasket replacement.
Nigel
So it will be going back to South Yorkshire after the work.
37111 - YK07 AYJ is now at Abbey Lane depot.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on November 20, 2019, 12:15:48 AM
37111 - YK07 AYJ is now at Abbey Lane depot.
That's a Sheffield vehicle, I'm guessing it's here for repair. Strange considering we've never had B9's, plus Leicester hasn't got the perfect record for maintenance does it.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on November 20, 2019, 04:57:50 PM
That's a Sheffield vehicle, I'm guessing it's here for repair. Strange considering we've never had B9's, plus Leicester hasn't got the perfect record for maintenance does it.
Go on then, spill the beans with facts and evidence rather than making wild statements or are you just an armchair expert?
In reality, Leicester's maintenance record is rather good.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on November 21, 2019, 12:14:37 PM
Go on then, spill the beans with facts and evidence rather than making wild statements or are you just an armchair expert?
In reality, Leicester's maintenance record is rather good.
3 fires since 2015, poorly looked after buses (mainly the B7L's), with 66319 having an engine failure. Oil leaks on 4 year old Streetlites, in the form of 63350. 32644 and 32645 both always have their fans on, 32646 had a strange noise going through the bus from the electrics.
If this isn't proof our maintenance isn't on point, I don't really know what is. What are you, a driver or something.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on November 21, 2019, 08:36:33 PM
3 fires since 2015, poorly looked after buses (mainly the B7L's), with 66319 having an engine failure. Oil leaks on 4 year old Streetlites, in the form of 63350. 32644 and 32645 both always have their fans on, 32646 had a strange noise going through the bus from the electrics.
If this isn't proof our maintenance isn't on point, I don't really know what is. What are you, a driver or something.
A bus is a vehicle is which is subject to an incredibly arduous working life in the form of long days and difficult conditions in stop/start traffic, particularly in a city like Leicester. Good preventative maintenance (which First Leicester has) and drivers being on the ball (with first use checks and being aware of how their bus is behaving whilst out on the road) are two factors which deal with many vehicle related faults. You will never be able to deal with everything though.
66319 is an old bus, which has worked hard and owes the company nothing. Full on engine failures are incredibly rare. Sometimes oil leaks happen; StreetLites and StreetDecks are a relatively new vehicle type. As such experience is still being gained with them. Gone are the days when there are years and years of testing before a vehicle enters normal use, as per London's Routemasters in the 1950s.
32644 and 32645 have worn fan drives - when they're at this point the fans work flat out and lose the ability to vary their speed. No, it isn't the best because the engine is put under increased load, which in turn increases fuel consumption. They're not in any way unsafe though. Someone will be looking at cost of a new unit versus the age of the vehicle. Like it or not, it's an accountancy led culture at the moment, particularly in these unpredictable times for First. 32646? Well - who knows; electricity is generally silent though.
Finally, no, I'm not a driver. I'm a realist who is a little bit informed and aware.
Fair enough
Thanks very much LazyGuy for expressing your opinions (which might be similar to other people's), and FireFly, for your intelligent and informed replies, and perspective.
Unfortunately, on bus enthusiasts forums we don't get enough of the latter, and it's a matter of great importance to me, here in Worcester, that our vehicles are as reliable as possible, because traffic jams are frequent but very difficult to predict where and when, and First is mainly carrying only passengers who have no other option of how to travel. (IMHO).
Presumably, the maintenance budget would have to be increased by 100% say, to achieve maximum vehicle reliability, so I find all this very frustrating.
:'(
35190, 35191 & 35192 are all on loan to 'The Red' (Worcester), doing park & ride for the Victorian Fayre.
32627 & 37158 from PMT are also in use.
Well, 35191 and 192 are both back, doing there various journeys around Leicester's Sunday timetable. 35190 isn't in service, but could be back.
63353 is sitting in the depot in a sorrowful state. Many of its panels have been removed, and has empty gaps over the place.
Two of those B7's from Cymru are sitting together in the depot too, still in their cymru clipper livery.
69384 is on the road for the first time in Leicester today (02/12/2019), sporting 'the Leicester 88s' livery. Seen here in Eyres Monsell:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EKxqQRDXYAEQACH?format=jpg&name=900x900
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EKxqQRAW4AAwfEx?format=jpg&name=small
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EKxqQQ_WoAA40-I?format=jpg&name=small
Looks nice, but I gotta admit it reminds of me of how McDonald's locations used to look many years ago, as well as the old Midland Fox livery.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on December 02, 2019, 10:52:37 AM
69384 is on the road for the first time in Leicester today (02/12/2019), sporting 'the Leicester 88s' livery. Seen here in Eyres Monsell:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EKxqQRDXYAEQACH?format=jpg&name=900x900
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EKxqQRAW4AAwfEx?format=jpg&name=small
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EKxqQQ_WoAA40-I?format=jpg&name=small
Good, but the front needs something. That yellow doesn't look good bland.
Also, are they refurbished, as I can't tell from the pictures.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on December 02, 2019, 04:14:59 PM
Good, but the front needs something. That yellow doesn't look good bland.
Also, are they refurbished, as I can't tell from the pictures.
I noticed the yellow bars instead of the normal turquoise but it's had them since Wales, and I couldn't find any pictures to help identify the seats. All I'm gonna say is keep it and any others that get this livery (I'd imagine 69382 isn't far off joining) off the routes that overlap the Kinchbus services as they might get mistaken for one of their Wright Solars.
69381 was out yesterday (02/12/2019) on routes 16/74 and is out today (03/12/2019) on routes 14/14A, in full Welsh attire.
66967 and 66968 are now with First York.
66314 carted off for scrap, by PVS, yesterday (02/12/2019).
Don't have a clue if this was true or not, but 35152 was allegedly on the 12, and 35153 did a single journey on the 22.
StreetLite 63365, dressed in Christmas vinyls, operating on route 17 today (05/12/2019).
Quote from: 47609FireFly on December 05, 2019, 02:54:26 PM
StreetLite 63365, dressed in Christmas vinyls, operating on route 17 today (05/12/2019).
I've seen a picture of it.
It's livery is the same as the one on 63366, which someone posted in the Wyvern channel.
South Yorkshire StreetDecks 35117 and 35131 arrived at Abbey Lane today (06/12/2019).
I have a theory that over the next year or so, services 12, 13, 17, 21 and 38/38A will also end up with newer Volvos in their own liveries like they've done with the 18 and 88/88A, leaving the Streetlites to work alongside the StreetDecks and the 25/26 and 16/74.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on December 06, 2019, 12:47:45 PM
South Yorkshire StreetDecks 35117 and 35131 arrived at Abbey Lane today (06/12/2019).
Do you think these will be replacements for Leicester's Gemini's?
Quote from: willr7 on December 06, 2019, 04:46:58 PM
Do you think these will be replacements for Leicester's Gemini's?
I hope not. We were told ages ago they'd be B9s from Leeds.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on December 06, 2019, 04:52:00 PM
I hope not. We were told ages ago they'd be B9s from Leeds.
I know the Gemini's are expected at Worcester once you receive any replacements for them. I think I remember hearing about the B9s now.
Recent updates suggest that Worcester is also expecting 2 StreetDecks in addition to the Gemini's, so B9s could still be on the cards for Leicester and the two StreetDecks at Leicester could be intended for Worcester.
However, It seems to me like an odd pair to transfer (with 35131 being in the middle of the Steellink batch...)
So I've asked around and apparently 35117 and 35131 are transfers.
However, they are apparently staying in Leicester.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on December 07, 2019, 10:57:11 AM
So I've asked around and apparently 35117 and 35131 are transfers.
However, they are apparently staying in Leicester.
I'm guessing either to replace 35174 or go in a livery for the 38/38A. That could do with double-deckers again.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on December 07, 2019, 10:57:11 AM
So I've asked around and apparently 35117 and 35131 are transfers.
However, they are apparently staying in Leicester.
Interesting, Thanks for finding that out. :)
StreetLite 63358 has entered service in Leicester today (10/12/2019) on routes 16/74.
https://www.firstgroup.com/leicester/news-and-service-updates/news/jump-board-santa-bus-christmas
Santa bus! The timetables for 63365 have been confirmed.
Interesting allocations, not seen such a varied route list for Monday's - Saturdays before.
@47609FireFly Is 63068 actually here, or is it just 35169 in disguise?
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on December 16, 2019, 10:09:43 PM
@47609FireFly Is 63068 actually here, or is it just 35169 in disguise?
Both 63068 and 63069 are now in service in Leicester.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on December 17, 2019, 12:20:13 PM
Both 63068 and 63069 are now in service in Leicester.
And according to the recent updates, 69249 and 69380 should be at the depot as well.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on December 17, 2019, 05:32:52 PM
And according to the recent updates, 69249 and 69380 should be at the depot as well.
Just because they've transferred 'on paper' doesn't necessarily mean they will be 'at the depot' yet.
StreetDecks 35124 and 35130 arrived at Abbey Lane yesterday (17/12/2019).
StreetDeck 35119 arrived at Abbey Lane today (18/12/2019).
Streetlite 63365 has entered service in Leicester following the Santa bus.
It has all it's Christmas decor and it's wrap outside the vehicle removed, with it now bring in the normal Leicester livery, with Leicester naming.
A batch of StreetLites from Bristol are on their way to Leicester today including 63078
Such a shame, Leicester's fleet used to be interesting.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on December 29, 2019, 10:38:26 PM
Such a shame, Leicester's fleet used to be interesting.
Welcome to how I feel with Arriva.
Quote from: Tony on December 29, 2019, 06:15:38 PM
A batch of StreetLites from Bristol are on their way to Leicester today including 63078
I believe there should be 11 in total. (That's how many were at Bristol anyway)
Quote from: willr7 on December 30, 2019, 12:20:15 AM
I believe there should be 11 in total. (That's how many were at Bristol anyway)
We'll have 9 coming. 63068 and 69 are already in service here.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on December 30, 2019, 11:07:01 AM
We'll have 9 coming. 63068 and 69 are already in service here.
Yeah, sorry I was including 63068/9. :)
I wonder if they will be put in a new livery for the 38/38A?
I like liveries, but I also don't. It means that very few vehicles can move about. It also limits the buses that can go out on Sundays.
As I understand it just three of the Bristol Streetlites are yet to move, though I'd guess it won't be long before they do.....
Quote from: markcf83 on December 30, 2019, 02:13:05 PM
As I understand it just three of the Bristol Streetlites are yet to move, though I'd guess it won't be long before they do.....
63070, 63071 and 63072 should be here in the next few days. Elsewhere, 66969 has made the move to Doncaster. 66962 should have as well but I'm not too sure.
Anyone know if today's bustimes findings of all the 22's Streetdecks on the 74 being true? If so, it means the 22 is fully single decker today, which is rare.
However I don't really believe it. I'm guessing some Streetlites and Streetdecks have had their ticket machines swapped. Is strange that it's only the 22's who've seemed to have it swapped though...
Okay, I've gathered why it's just single deckers. The 22 has to divert under the Barkby road bridge (the one 35174 hit) so therefore the 22 and 16/74's allocations have seemed to swap. Interesting move this is.
63072, 63074 and 63077 entered service today. 072 on the 22, with both 074 and 077 on the 88A.
All recent additions are now listed on the main site in the fleet changes
http://wmbusphotos.com/Fleetchanges/First.html
63071 and 63075 entered service today too.
It's the end of the line for 66972-66975, which are the next transfers up north.
Anybody know where 32643 has disappeared?
Also, 63071 came into service today.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on January 09, 2020, 07:26:36 PM
Anybody know where 32643 has disappeared?
Also, 63071 came into service today.
32643 has now moved to Stoke, but the rest are still going to Worcester. Maybe they're replacing the Volvo ALX400s instead seeing as they're 18 years old this month, and it's been confirmed that the StreetDecks from Sheffield are the replacements, not B9s from Leeds as originally thought.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on January 09, 2020, 08:30:52 PM
32643 has now moved to Stoke, but the rest are still going to Worcester. Maybe they're replacing the Volvo ALX400s instead seeing as they're 18 years old this month, and it's been confirmed that the StreetDecks from Sheffield are the replacements, not B9s from Leeds as originally thought.
Why couldn't they send 32644. I did see 32643 on its last ever run, and was going to take a picture, but didn't. However earlier that day, I did get it in a video I was recording of a scumbag trying to not pay on 35170.
I don't really know. I think 32643's gone to replace 32081 and 32644 and 32645 will go to Worcester to replace 32066 and 32067. To be honest, I'm not sure if they can send 32646 somewhere else. Same with 66965, which I was shocked to see is now one of just 4 KX05s remaining.
I hope the Leicestershire bus preservation people do buy 32646 and 66965, that'd be very good.
There are also only 4 KX05's left. 66963, 66965, 66970 and 66971. I've thankfully been on all 4 of them. Shame about 66972 and 973. I was debating over going on the 13 when they still were in operation, but chose a Streetlite on the 22 instead.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on January 09, 2020, 11:01:04 PM
I don't really know. I think 32643's gone to replace 32081 and 32644 and 32645 will go to Worcester to replace 32066 and 32067. To be honest, I'm not sure if they can send 32646 somewhere else. Same with 66965, which I was shocked to see is now one of just 4 KX05s remaining.
Could you link the page the picture of 32643 is on?
Anyone know what's happened with 35169, 63351 and 63353?
https://www.ukbuses.co.uk/fleet/firstmidlands.pdf
I see that the ukbuses fleet list is showing 37111 as being allocated to Leicester.
I believe I have read that that it's only at Leicester for maintenance / rectification work.
It would be the only B9TL in the Midlands fleet if it stayed, and I assume its only here temporarily.
Does anyone know any facts that are different to that ??
Fairly sure I remember reading Leicester is doing some of the maintainance for Sheffield.
69303 has entered service on the 88, wearing the new 88/A livery.
As I thought for about 2 weeks but struggled to find confirmation, 66963 is now at Doncaster.
Where did 66972, 73, 74 and 75 transfer to?
I think they're currently on loan to York.
I wish they'd put their new Braunstone and 88s branding and any future ones on their website somewhere like a few other First operations have.
I noticed today that the 'Leicester 88s' branding has been replaced with 'Saffron' branding (including a large saffron flower). This is on 69303 and has replaced the 'Leicester 88s' branding on 69384.
I've just seen a picture of 69382 with the updated branding and I think it looks better. That should go into service tomorrow and 69380 and 69381 shouldn't be far behind it. I just wish they'd put something on the front. With regards to the interior they have black leather seats and still have the yellow dragon of Cadwaladr from their days in Wales. 69249 and 69252 also have that interior.
What's occurred to 66965? I'm guessing 66971 has been removed from Leicester service too, leaving 66970 as the last KX05 here.
For some absolutely unbeknown reason, 66692 and 66693 will be moving here from Worcester at sometime in the future. These are B7RLE Centro's, which will be refurbished internally, as well as upgraded to Euro 6. This was confirmed on the midlandred forum, by Nigel Eggleton. Very strange move...
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on February 04, 2020, 10:46:30 PM
For some absolutely unbeknown reason, 66692 and 66693 will be moving here from Worcester at sometime in the future. These are B7RLE Centro's, which will be refurbished internally, as well as upgraded to Euro 6. This was confirmed on the midlandred forum, by Nigel Eggleton. Very strange move...
I believe 66692 and 66693 are the chosen ones as they already received a light interior refurb in 2015 (Along with 66694) unlike the rest of the batch which should be retained at Worcester.
My thought is they may be for use on Leicester's route 13 (Replacing the Volvo B7RLEs that were used previously) ?
Quote from: willr7 on February 05, 2020, 08:29:57 PM
I believe 66692 and 66693 are the chosen ones as they already received a light interior refurb in 2015 (Along with 66694) unlike the rest of the batch which should be retained at Worcester.
My thought is they may be for use on Leicester's route 13 (Replacing the Volvo B7RLEs that were used previously) ?
That would be a justified reason. Someone (I think
@leicesterbusadventurer) said 66972/3/4/5 were on loan, however this probably isn't true. Still odd that we are gaining older vehicles.
66975's new look (not my picture): https://www.flickr.com/photos/128732924@N02/49492078563/
Quote from: 47609FireFly on February 06, 2020, 12:01:55 PM
66975's new look (not my picture): https://www.flickr.com/photos/128732924@N02/49492078563/
It's better than going to scrap. 66973 is having the same treatment. I see some update has been inputted for 66965 on bustimes.org. Do you know what this is?
First seem to be using or trialing a new format for their destination blinds. It's slightly like some of Arriva's vehicles, but the positioning is different. It can be seen on all vehicles except the Volvo B7L's, as flipdot isn't compatible with it.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on February 09, 2020, 10:35:05 AM
First seem to be using or trialing a new format for their destination blinds. It's slightly like some of Arriva's vehicles, but the positioning is different. It can be seen on all vehicles except the Volvo B7L's, as flipdot isn't compatible with it.
When you say format, do you mean like the example shown in the top photo for Arriva's 2500, used in their Oswestry and Shrewsbury fleet? http://wmbusphotos.com/Arriva/2500.html (http://wmbusphotos.com/Arriva/2500.html)
Quote from: PointerDart on February 10, 2020, 10:55:39 PM
When you say format, do you mean like the example shown in the top photo for Arriva's 2500, used in their Oswestry and Shrewsbury fleet? http://wmbusphotos.com/Arriva/2500.html (http://wmbusphotos.com/Arriva/2500.html)
Same font, but the positioning is different.
By the fact that 32644 is waiting to be edited, is that also being/been transferred?
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on February 16, 2020, 09:42:30 AM
By the fact that 32644 is waiting to be edited, is that also being/been transferred?
Thanks for flagging that up LazyGuy, -- I'll keep an eye open for it (and other ex-Leicester DDs) here in Worcester, over the next few weeks !
66971 is now at West Yorkshire, I'm not sure which depot.
Is 66971 a recent transfer as it's still down on the midlandred.net website for being still in Leicester
Quote from: mark114 on February 17, 2020, 01:44:12 PM
Is 66971 a recent transfer as it's still down on the midlandred.net website for being still in Leicester
Yes, may have been used at Bradford initially for a short time but suspect it'll become a trainer at Bramley, 974/5 I think are both now trainers and guess 972 is also being converted.
Thank you so much for reply cheese and info it's greatly appreciated and my sincere apologies for the late reply
32644 is back and alive. This time taking a turn on the 18, taking over 69442, so that could go to the 21.
Of the six StreetDecks from "up north", plus 35169, - can anyone tell me if they are all in Leicester garage currently; -- have any had their repairs completed; -- and have any disappeared somewhere ( - like for a repaint) ?????
Someone at the depot messed an allocation up. Braunstone Bus 69439 went onto the 16/74 runs, and this did actually happen, as I happened to pass it on 32644.
32644 is also in a very unhealthy state, with some strange noises and screeches constantly occurring. Nonetheless it's still a fast and powerful vehicle.
Anyone know as to why someone has edited 32645 on bustimes? I really hope it hasn't gone yet, as that's one fantastic bus.
69384 was captured today with 'Saffron' now on the front. The livery is now complete.
66971 has been doing driver training duties in Huddersfield...still with all its Leicester branding. I'm sure that turned a few heads. Also, can someone actually confirm what's happened to 35169 and 63353, and whether they'll actually be back along with 35174?
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on February 28, 2020, 05:26:13 PM
66971 has been doing driver training duties in Huddersfield...still with all its Leicester branding. I'm sure that turned a few heads. Also, can someone actually confirm what's happened to 35169 and 63353, and whether they'll actually be back along with 35174?
Haven't a clue about 169 or 174. From the times I've seen it in the depot the past few months, 63353 I believe has a fault of some sort, as it's been sitting in the depot with panels removed from the rear of the near side.
Where have 66840 and 66965 gone?
Seems that 66965 has also gone to West Yorkshire.
StreetLite 63364 now in service in Leicester.
StreetLite 63366 now in service in Leicester.
Volvo B7RLE 69249 now in service in 'Saffron', red/yellow livery.
Quote from: DD12 on January 16, 2020, 10:39:31 PM
https://www.ukbuses.co.uk/fleet/firstmidlands.pdf
I see that the ukbuses fleet list is showing 37111 as being allocated to Leicester.
I believe I have read that that it's only at Leicester for maintenance / rectification work.
It would be the only B9TL in the Midlands fleet if it stayed, and I assume its only here temporarily.
Does anyone know any facts that are different to that ??
37111 is no longer shown on the the ukbuses Midlands fleet list.
It may have returned / still be - "up north", and hasn't been listed (yet) as moving from there, in the excellent official update list provided by wmbusphotos.
However, it could turn up anywhere now, as "sister" vehicles are being transferred currently (I believe).
The ukbuses website now shows a seventh StreetDeck -- 35123 -- as being transferred to Leicester, however it hasn't (yet) appeared
in the official list of movements reproduced on the wmbusphotos website, so it might only be here for maintenance / rectification ??
32644, 32645, 32646 and most of the Volvo B7L's are not being put into service. This probably is down to the coronavirus and the reduction down to Saturday service, however they all used to go in service, even on normal Saturday timetables.
Anyone know if the B7L's have been scrapped and whether 32644/5/6 have left Leicester?
I don't think they're allowed to transfer buses at the moment so I'd imagine not. It's just a case of whether they decide to keep them when it returns to normal or decide that's the end. And yeah, Arriva are keeping B7TLs and DB250s off for a similar reason.
Not directly related to Leicester, but Volvo B7TL Alexander ALX400 32063 (W223 XBD) is currently up for sale through Ensignbus, as seen on Coach and Bus World's website.
This bus started it's life in Leicester, and remained here until 2014, where it went to Great Yarmouth.
I hope someone buy's it and either preserves it or keeps it in service.
The following First Leicester vehicles are currently SORN due to the lockdown:
32644, 32645, 32646, 35168, 35169, 35171, 35178, 35180, 35186, 35189, 35190, 35191, 35192, 63068, 63069, 63070, 63071, 63073, 63077, 63103, 63105, 63106, 63107, 63108, 63250, 63346, 63347, 63351, 63353, 63354, 63357, 63358, 63364, 63365, 63366, 66304, 66306, 66307, 66308, 66310, 66311, 66312, 66315, 66316, 66317, 66318, 66321, 66322, 66805, 66820, 66838, 66841, 66845, 66849, 66851, 66852, 66970, 69249, 69252, 69303, 69382, 69384, 69439, 69440 and 69441.
35174 has also been registered as such, which I guess confirms that it won't be coming back. Additionally, this list does not include new arrivals that were yet to enter service, like the Sheffield StreetDecks. Also, someone should update the info for 66306, as apparently it hasn't had an M.O.T since 2007.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on April 28, 2020, 02:45:21 PM
. Also, someone should update the info for 66306, as apparently it hasn't had an M.O.T since 2007.
Bus MoT's do not show on the DVSA tax check site
Someone at the DVSA has entered an incorrect registration when MoTing a Suzuki motorbike in 2006
https://www.check-mot.service.gov.uk/?_ga=2.75288210.126251474.1588084344-1992353848.1585131677
I thought 66321 was scrapped?
Also what on earth has happened to 35169, it's not been out for months (not that it will be for ages)
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on April 29, 2020, 12:33:00 AM
I thought 66321 was scrapped?
[It was. I meant to say 66320 there.]
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on April 29, 2020, 12:33:00 AM
I thought 66321 was scrapped?
Also what on earth has happened to 35169, it's not been out for months (not that it will be for ages)
It was, I meant to say 66320 there. (Excuse my format mess-up on the above)
According to bustimes, every double decker except 35155, 35168, 35187 and 35190 is out, with only 2 single deckers out.
It's certainly nice to see that 32644, 5 and 6 are still working, if bustimes are correct.
It does seem like a wiser idea to use all the Decker's rather than the Single decker's, for capacity purposes. 32644 is allegedly on the 12, with 32645 on the 18.
35171 is also on the 17, which is interesting.
Route branded allocations are mostly out of the question.
Prior to the lockdown, 66840 had moved to Norwich. Additionally, 33693, 33695, 33696, 33697, 33700, 33728 and 33733 appear to have transferred to Leicester from Bolton.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on May 31, 2020, 12:32:03 PM
Prior to the lockdown, 66840 had moved to Norwich. Additionally, 33693, 33695, 33696, 33697, 33700, 33728 and 33733 appear to have transferred to Leicester from Bolton.
I bloody hope they enter service in Leicester and aren't here for repairs or servicing,
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on May 31, 2020, 12:32:03 PM
Prior to the lockdown, 66840 had moved to Norwich. Additionally, 33693, 33695, 33696, 33697, 33700, 33728 and 33733 appear to have transferred to Leicester from Bolton.
The recent First group changes are on the main site
http://wmbusphotos.com/Fleetchanges/First.html
Quote from: Tony on May 31, 2020, 12:39:54 PM
The recent First group changes are on the main site
http://wmbusphotos.com/Fleetchanges/First.html
I saw 6 Enviro 400's today parked up at Adderley Green depot. Their positioning made identification of most difficult, but 33733 is one of them. Here for prep before moving to Leicester maybe? All are still in standard first group livery with Diamond stickers covering the First logos at present.
Quote from: DVXXII on June 21, 2020, 07:01:44 PM
I saw 6 Enviro 400's today parked up at Adderley Green depot. Their positioning made identification of most difficult, but 33733 is one of them. Here for prep before moving to Leicester maybe? All are still in standard first group livery with Diamond stickers covering the First logos at present.
think they will have come from diamond north west depot at bolton (EX FIRST) diamond north west have quite a few first buses on loan, still in firsts livery with diamond stickers on,
Quote from: Cedric on June 22, 2020, 04:10:42 PM
think they will have come from diamond north west depot at bolton (EX FIRST) diamond north west have quite a few first buses on loan, still in firsts livery with diamond stickers on,
No double decks though
Quote from: Tony on June 22, 2020, 05:19:01 PM
No double decks though
Well I think First could do with a bit more, as I think they got rid of the ALX400s far too quickly back in 2015 and then those 4 Geminis a year later. In other news, 63107 had a bit of an accident yesterday afternoon, hitting some traffic lights at an Uppingham Road junction.
Look on Leicestershire live for a couple of images
Quote from: Mayfield on June 23, 2020, 03:17:35 PM
Look on Leicestershire live for a couple of images
The link (https://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/news/leicester-news/bus-crashes-railings-traffic-light-4252409) for the lazy of us.
Leicester Mercury.co.uk
69380 has entered service today on the 88.
Service levels will be increasing even further from the 6th of July.
The 22 is receiving an interesting service pattern, with City Centre - Rushey Mead having an increase of buses every 10 minutes, but City Centre - Evington still keeping a 15-minute service.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on June 29, 2020, 01:20:04 PM
Service levels will be increasing even further from the 6th of July.
The 22 is receiving an interesting service pattern, with City Centre - Rushey Mead having an increase of buses every 10 minutes, but City Centre - Evington still keeping a 15-minute service.
Will this still be happening if they decide to locally lock down Leicester, as the news has been mentioning today?
Quote from: ellspurs on June 29, 2020, 04:11:59 PM
Will this still be happening if they decide to locally lock down Leicester, as the news has been mentioning today?
I do not know, sorry.
I personally think they should actually reduce them personally, in a mission to deter the idiots who think it's acceptable to go out for no real reason.
Quote from: ellspurs on June 29, 2020, 04:11:59 PM
Will this still be happening if they decide to locally lock down Leicester, as the news has been mentioning today?
These are confirmed to be postponed
I decided to check how many of the former First Leicester ALX400s are still running wherever they were moved to, and they are as follows:
32059 (Great Yarmouth Heritage Bus), 32064, 32066, 32067, 32068, 32077, 32079, 32080, 32082, 32087, 32091, 32092 and 32097. I'm not sure about the Bath University ones as to whether they're just SORN due to the Universities still being closed or if they were due to be withdrawn anyway like the batch at Bristol on the 3 and 4.
I suspect the Bath based examples won't see use again.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on July 01, 2020, 10:59:04 AM
I decided to check how many of the former First Leicester ALX400s are still running wherever they were moved to, and they are as follows:
32059 (Great Yarmouth Heritage Bus), 32064, 32066, 32067, 32068, 32077, 32079, 32080, 32082, 32087, 32091, 32092 and 32097. I'm not sure about the Bath University ones as to whether they're just SORN due to the Universities still being closed or if they were due to be withdrawn anyway like the batch at Bristol on the 3 and 4.
The Ensign lists suggest 32064 went for scrap in April this year.
Quote from: Cheese on July 02, 2020, 08:09:24 PM
The Ensign lists suggest 32064 went for scrap in April this year.
The locations of them are on the main site
https://wmbusphotos.com/FirstUK/Firstindex30001-39999.html
Noticed a Nearly painted Saffron liveried bus on the back of low loader on the A46 near Bingham heading towards Leicester.
Could not tell which one and was devoid of markings.
66310, 66312, 66315, 66805, 66849, 66851 and 66970 appear to have been withdrawn or departed from Leicester recently. Just before lockdown, 66820 had moved to Worcester and 66840 was reported as transferred to Norwich, however, it was pictured recently on the back of a truck on the A1 headed to Thorntons, presumably to become a trainer vehicle. Additionally, 66965 is expected to transfer to Hampshire today, where it will also become a trainer vehicle.
Good to see First pushing the boat out now with their upgrades, with 69250, 69251, 69381 and 69383 all entering service on the 88/88A in the past week or so. Just one more and that's the set complete.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on August 25, 2020, 02:26:03 PM
Good to see First pushing the boat out now with their upgrades, with 69250, 69251, 69381 and 69383 all entering service on the 88/88A in the past week or so. Just one more and that's the set complete.
Even if 69250 went onto the 21 on it's 2nd day in service....
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on August 25, 2020, 10:42:42 PM
Even if 69250 went onto the 21 on it's 2nd day in service....
Has anyone actually viewed 69250 in service?
Today, I was at Haymarket Bus Station following the tracking for 69250 (which was shown as working on 25/26), at the time 69250 was supposed to be arriving, Streetlite 63250 appeared. 63250 hasn't shown a track since 18th August and, as the numbers are so similar, I wonder whether the fleet number in the machine has been incorrectly programmed. 63250 on route 21 yesterday would also make more sense.
Mike T.
Does anybody know what's happening to 35174, has It been scrapped or will it be repaired, been off the road for months now but still shows on the fleet list.
Quote from: Mayfield on August 30, 2020, 07:11:22 PM
Does anybody know what's happening to 35174, has It been scrapped or will it be repaired, been off the road for months now but still shows on the fleet list.
It's listed as 'Long term reserve' on the company fleetlist, not 'end of life' First use for vehicles waiting sale, so presumabl is planned for repair
Quote from: Mayfield on August 30, 2020, 07:11:22 PM
Does anybody know what's happening to 35174, has It been scrapped or will it be repaired, been off the road for months now but still shows on the fleet list.
as Tony said said it is planned to be repaired i have seen a picture of it with the top deck all covered up back in storage at Wright Bus in NI but this was before the problems with Wright Bus came up
Thanks for reply, this happened way before Wrights issues (nov 18) Seems strange nothing has happens when on the face of it the damage does not look that bad for a bridge accident.
Tony, I don't suppose you know what the issue with 63353 is do you? Hasn't seen service since November and has been sitting at the front of the depot with many side panels missing ever since. It's probably an engine fault or something but 9 and a half months is a long time for it to be off the road.
Quote from: Mayfield on August 30, 2020, 08:58:36 PM
Thanks for reply, this happened way before Wrights issues (nov 18) Seems strange nothing has happens when on the face of it the damage does not look that bad for a bridge accident.
i think it will depend on any other damage substained as i recall watching some video footage of the bridge strike and as far as i know it hit the bridge with some force
Quote from: xmj-signal on August 26, 2020, 08:27:21 PM
Has anyone actually viewed 69250 in service?
Answering myself here - been into town this morning and viewed 69250 on 88A's. Also, 69305 was out, working on early 88's. It came in on 0905 from Eyres Monsell but didn't work back out on 0946 to Eyres Monsell (the journey didn't run at all) and was then replaced by 69382 on the next journey on the board (1058 to Eyres Monsell) so presumably a problem with the bus.
88/88A had 10 Saffron-liveried vehicles (69305 replaced by 69382 so all 11 actually worked today) and 63250 which is still not tracking on Bustimes.
Mike T.
Anyone know why 32644 is apparently 32 late and has been sitting on Trevino Drive for that time period?
Can anyone confirm that the seven E400s from "up-north" are now at Leicester, please.
( - and being worked-on ??)
66970 is now in service in Colchester.
A further Volvo update confirms that 66311 is now working in Worcester, 66840 now in service in Norwich, I assume from that picture I saw it of on the back of a truck enroute to Thornton's it has now been given the pink line livery. 66820 has joined many others in Doncaster with 66805 believed to be there as well. 66971 has left West Yorkshire, where it ran still complete with Leicester branding, but it has now been removed and joined 66970 in Colchester. 66972-66975 are all now driver trainers in West Yorkshire. 66851 is also believed to be in West Yorkshire.
Quote from: DD12 on September 12, 2020, 12:09:35 PM
Can anyone confirm that the seven E400s from "up-north" are now at Leicester, please.
( - and being worked-on ??)
Hi, I'm new here! I live in Leicester, and live on a First bus route (number 13).
I've been following this forum for many years, just never joined (until now!).
There was a post on Facebook showing the new (old) E400's, of which 2 of the 7 are now in Leicester, in a multi tone Orange livery (similar to Braunstone Bus / Saffron's all over design). 1 has been branded fully, showing Frequent Fourteen's as the branding!
All 7 are expected to be orange, with the two already in Leicester due very soon on the road.
For now the 14/A branded Streetdeck are staying in current 14/A branding too. (I guess until the 3 Geminis leave to Worcester).
I guess most of you here don't follow the Facebook groups? Seems to be best place for recent updates! Even Nigel responds to many comments / posts there!
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on September 28, 2020, 10:02:01 AM
Hi, I'm new here! I live in Leicester, and live on a First bus route (number 13).
I've been following this forum for many years, just never joined (until now!).
There was a post on Facebook showing the new (old) E400's, of which 2 of the 7 are now in Leicester, in a multi tone Orange livery (similar to Braunstone Bus / Saffron's all over design). 1 has been branded fully, showing Frequent Fourteen's as the branding!
All 7 are expected to be orange, with the two already in Leicester due very soon on the road.
For now the 14/A branded Streetdeck are staying in current 14/A branding too. (I guess until the 3 Geminis leave to Worcester).
I guess most of you here don't follow the Facebook groups? Seems to be best place for recent updates! Even Nigel responds to many comments / posts there!
Can you share a link? All the pages I followed got shut down in the last year or two.
Not sure if I can post a picture from Facebook here, as it's not mine.
But it's pictured today in Haymarket! Typical bus times website isn't tracking any first buses (that site has been hit and miss the past few months).
Best Facebook Group (which I've posted to many times.. Nigel comments on.. has these new 14's): https://www.facebook.com/groups/623687697717684/?ref=share
The new Livery is 3 tone Orange (light orange, Centrebus orange, and a sort of brown/orange).
Front and above the door says "upto every 6 minutes between New Parks & City Centre".
The front below the window is the "Frequent Fourteens" - At the side towards the back (passenger side) is a blue stripe with the writing: "To and from Glenfield Hospital". The back has a similar map to the back of the 25/26's street lites.. showing the line from city to new parks, then spur for Ryder Road for 14, and Glenfield hospital and Beaumont centre for 14A.
There's a very small "From First" logo to the side too.
I think it looks lovely! 👍
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on September 28, 2020, 04:07:21 PM
Not sure if I can post a picture from Facebook here, as it's not mine.
But it's pictured today in Haymarket! Typical bus times website isn't tracking any first buses (that site has been hit and miss the past few months).
Best Facebook Group (which I've posted to many times.. Nigel comments on.. has these new 14's): https://www.facebook.com/groups/623687697717684/?ref=share
The new Livery is 3 tone Orange (light orange, Centrebus orange, and a sort of brown/orange).
Front and above the door says "upto every 6 minutes between New Parks & City Centre".
The front below the window is the "Frequent Fourteens" - At the side towards the back (passenger side) is a blue stripe with the writing: "To and from Glenfield Hospital". The back has a similar map to the back of the 25/26's street lites.. showing the line from city to new parks, then spur for Ryder Road for 14, and Glenfield hospital and Beaumont centre for 14A.
There's a very small "From First" logo to the side too.
I think it looks lovely! 👍
That link doesn't work
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on September 28, 2020, 04:16:14 PM
That link doesn't work
Works for me, a group called First Bus Enthusiast if you want to search for it
Quote from: Tony on September 28, 2020, 04:45:50 PM
Works for me, a group called First Bus Enthusiast if you want to search for it
It's a private group, and I don't join enthusiast groups on FB for personal reasons.
There's a couple of photos of 33693 in the new livery in a couple of posts on the Leicester Transport Heritage Trust Facebook page - it's a public group so you'll be able to access it:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/143389412374259/
Actually, it doesn't look as bad as I expected!
Mike T.
Presumably, 33693 etc, must be Euro6 compliant -- -- have they been Euro6 from new - or does anyone know if they have been upgraded ??
Thanks.
Quote from: DD12 on September 29, 2020, 01:18:08 PM
Presumably, 33693 etc, must be Euro6 compliant -- -- have they been Euro6 from new - or does anyone know if they have been upgraded ??
Thanks.
A '12' plate Enviro 400 wouldn't have been Euro 6 from new. It would have been Euro 5.
Everything MMC onwards is Euro 6 from new.
That is a rather nice striking livery - does anyone know if there are any plans to repaint any of the 22's/54's Streetdecks into one of these newer, more striking liveries?
Does this class as an upgrade, remove 5 year old ones and replace them with 8 year old ones with a fresh lick of paint.
Quote from: Mayfield on September 29, 2020, 04:09:05 PM
Does this class as an upgrade, remove 5 year old ones and replace them with 8 year old ones with a fresh lick of paint.
At least the vehicles are just 3 years older than what they're replacing, and not 10 like what happened with the 13 a few years ago.
Quote from: MW on September 29, 2020, 01:24:40 PM
A '12' plate Enviro 400 wouldn't have been Euro 6 from new. It would have been Euro 5.
Everything MMC onwards is Euro 6 from new.
Thanks v.much MW !!
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on September 29, 2020, 04:58:30 PM
At least the vehicles are just 3 years older than what they're replacing, and not 10 like what happened with the 13 a few years ago.
Are you thinking that Leicester are losing those StreetDecks ??
( - Sorry if I'm muddled !!)
Quote from: MW on September 29, 2020, 01:24:40 PM
A '12' plate Enviro 400 wouldn't have been Euro 6 from new. It would have been Euro 5.
Everything MMC onwards is Euro 6 from new.
Yes, you cannot fit a euro 6 engine in either an E200 or E400 hence the curved rear ends on the MMCs to accommodate the larger engine
Quote from: DD12 on September 29, 2020, 07:56:30 PM
Are you thinking that Leicester are losing those StreetDecks ??
( - Sorry if I'm muddled !!)
They're not going anywhere, just being relegated to spares I believe to replace the Geminis. I was referring to when they removed the Glenfield branding from the 2 Streetlites and applied it to the 2 B7RLEs, both of which now gone of course.
Quote from: Tony on September 29, 2020, 08:02:04 PM
Yes, you cannot fit a euro 6 engine in either an E200 or E400 hence the curved rear ends on the MMCs to accommodate the larger engine
So these E400s repainted for the 14 are Euro 5 then (?) despite Leicester expecting to have a Clean Air Zone fairly soon ??
( - Sorry if if I've got it wrong).
They will be "retrofitted" / converted to Euro 6 Equivalent (the same thing they are / have done to the Saffron and Braunstone bus vehicles).
It sees a change to the exhaust and some kind of adjustment in the engine (although I don't know exact details)
No, these aren't dispersing Streetdecks.
All Streetdecks branded for 14/A are staying branded for 14/A.. these E400's are accompanying them (there's only 2 out so far, 5 more to come). (There's 12-13 buses out on 14/14A during main Monday to Friday!) currently they use single deckers and the non route branded Streetdecks.. so I guess this will free up those Streetdecks. But also allow some of the 02 singles to become retired!
By the end of the year the 3 geminis will be leaving, only then (I guess) will the Streetdecks for 14/A be de branded!
Thanks for that info Glenfieldmathk1 !!
66838 has become a training bus and has been repainted into a new livery.
In the comments of the LTHT FB page under the post of the Arriva E200MMC if anyone wants to have a look: https://m.facebook.com/groups/143389412374259
I'm going to make a prediction that the 3 Geminis and the 2 B7RLEs (original) will be gone by the end of this month.
The PVR of both the 13 and 18 will increase up to 3 (13) and 5 (18), with the 13 having a service every 20 minutes and the 18 up to every 12 minutes, during the morning and afternoon peaks.
With Churchgate and Haymarket pedestrianised, they now take a new route down Mansfield Street.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on October 16, 2020, 05:20:59 PM
The PVR of both the 13 and 18 will increase up to 3 (13) and 5 (18), with the 13 having a service every 20 minutes and the 18 up to every 12 minutes, during the morning and afternoon peaks.
With Churchgate and Haymarket pedestrianised, they now take a new route down Mansfield Street.
I believe this could potentially free up a double decker.. as I guess the increased to 20 minutes on 13 will mean they no longer need to run the double decker to keep up demand. Although could be wrong, as according to their app, even decker runs full at peak (4.20 & 5.20pm)!
SN12AHA heading south this afternoon on M1 near LFE services then I believe on to the M69, it is in full 14 livery
But totally devoid of any logos and fleet numbers, any idea where it would have been going ?
Quote from: Mayfield on October 23, 2020, 06:23:10 PM
SN12AHA heading south this afternoon on M1 near LFE services then I believe on to the M69, it is in full 14 livery
But totally devoid of any logos and fleet numbers, any idea where it would have been going ?
Probably Graysons at Tyseley
After 5 years in Cornwall, former Leicester ALX400 32097 is now owned by Redline Travel in Penwortham, Preston. It is now registered YIL 6982.
69442 hasn't been out for a couple of weeks. Does anyone know if it's it in for a repaint? Maybe a candidate for the 'Spare bus' livery already used at Worcester & the Potteries...
Quote from: willr7 on November 07, 2020, 09:01:02 AM
69442 hasn't been out for a couple of weeks. Does anyone know if it's it in for a repaint? Maybe a candidate for the 'Spare bus' livery already used at Worcester & the Potteries...
Gone for repaint.. should be for service 17.. (or at least that was what was planned back when they first painted service 18/88's etc).
I don't really think much to the spare bus livery.. and I think that should arrive last if anything! They need to brand / paint the rest of the buses otherwise it doesn't really make sense.
Fuscia is ok for "spare" if you ask me!
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on November 07, 2020, 12:12:15 PM
Gone for repaint.. should be for service 17.. (or at least that was what was planned back when they first painted service 18/88's etc).
I don't really think much to the spare bus livery.. and I think that should arrive last if anything! They need to brand / paint the rest of the buses otherwise it doesn't really make sense.
Fuscia is ok for "spare" if you ask me!
Thanks! The 17 uses 2 buses doesn't it? I wonder what other vehicle they could paint up for it...
Also, am I correct in saying there were plans to brand up the ex WoE StreetLite's for the 38/38A too?
Regarding the spare bus livery. I think a lot of people (including me) share your view on it. They tend to end up on any route on the network, not just the branded routes!
Quote from: willr7 on November 07, 2020, 02:04:26 PM
Thanks! The 17 uses 2 buses doesn't it? I wonder what other vehicle they could paint up for it...
Also, am I correct in saying there were plans to brand up the ex WoE StreetLite's for the 38/38A too?
Regarding the spare bus livery. I think a lot of people (including me) share your view on it. They tend to end up on any route on the network, not just the branded routes!
I believe the plan is to eventually brand all of the network! Leicester to have a full branded network back in the day's of Barbie.. so I guess, that's the plan eventually. However it's going to take some time to do it all.
As for 17, I'm not sure which other bus (or if that bus) will be branded!
I'm thinking.. Service 12 only uses 1 bus, and with Frequent Fourteens branded.. maybe it'll become a dark blue / indigo colour for 12?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on November 08, 2020, 11:49:58 AM
I believe the plan is to eventually brand all of the network! Leicester to have a full branded network back in the day's of Barbie.. so I guess, that's the plan eventually. However it's going to take some time to do it all.
As for 17, I'm not sure which other bus (or if that bus) will be branded!
I'm thinking.. Service 12 only uses 1 bus, and with Frequent Fourteens branded.. maybe it'll become a dark blue / indigo colour for 12?
The 12, pre-Covid, was half-hourly, so when everything is back to normal, should use 2 vehicles.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on November 08, 2020, 12:49:11 PM
The 12, pre-Covid, was half-hourly, so when everything is back to normal, should use 2 vehicles.
Numbers on 12 have always been low. So I think 12 would probably stay at hourly even after all this covid! I mean even now (pre 2nd lockdown) the bus isn't full.. so when it's able to run at full capacity, probably wouldn't be viable?
Could be wrong.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on November 08, 2020, 11:58:56 PM
Numbers on 12 have always been low. So I think 12 would probably stay at hourly even after all this covid! I mean even now (pre 2nd lockdown) the bus isn't full.. so when it's able to run at full capacity, probably wouldn't be viable?
Could be wrong.
It is a fairly useless route to be fair, and wouldn't surprise me if First cut it like they did with the 20. It's more or less covered by the 14, just rather than Aikman Avenue, it goes down Stevenson Drive, and goes direct down Liberty Road. It does mean Park Rise wouldn't be served if it were to be scrapped, but it would only be a 5 minute walk to either the 14 or even the 18, and both are a lot more frequent.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on November 09, 2020, 12:25:59 AM
It is a fairly useless route to be fair, and wouldn't surprise me if First cut it like they did with the 20. It's more or less covered by the 14, just rather than Aikman Avenue, it goes down Stevenson Drive, and goes direct down Liberty Road. It does mean Park Rise wouldn't be served if it were to be scrapped, but it would only be a 5 minute walk to either the 14 or even the 18, and both are a lot more frequent.
Stephenson Drive / Pindar Road are where most people get on.
Liberty Road, people always run over to 14 if they see that coming..
Park Rise, doesn't seem that busy, when I've seen it in person.
It wouldn't surprise me if they changed it to terminate in New Parks somewhere so it serves Pindar Road / Stephenson Drive. But then just operated a 14 every hour around Park Rise.. (They used to do this on Sunday's before!).
But, yes, could become a 20 and Be scrapped. Although, maybe hourly works? I mean First have had number 12 for a very long time (20+ years!).
Possible last week for 32646 this week. Heard a rumour from an inside source!
Would make sense with the number of E400s in service now 4. Just 3 to go then we'll have the Geminis replaced.
Only 32646 was out today out of the 3 Gemini's, which already is rather odd. Leads me to think 32644 and 32645's time at Leicester, after 15 and a half years, may be over.
According to some staff on the LTHT's FB page, 32646's last day is tomorrow, with 32645's time in Leicester, sadly over.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on November 10, 2020, 10:27:48 PM
Only 32646 was out today out of the 3 Gemini's, which already is rather odd. Leads me to think 32644 and 32645's time at Leicester, after 15 and a half years, may be over.
According to some staff on the LTHT's FB page, 32646's last day is tomorrow, with 32645's time in Leicester, sadly over.
32645 spent an evening (rare) running on service 13 for its last day!
32646 is rumoured to be last day of Wednesday!
(P.s. I think you commented on my YouTube vid)!
Does anyone know if these are still coming to Worcester, please ??
Quote from: DD12 on November 11, 2020, 02:51:15 PM
Does anyone know if these are still coming to Worcester, please ??
Nigel just confirmed this on my Facebook post!
They are replacing tridents with these (Tridents going to Essex!).
The last day:
Heres a video I got of 32646 early this evening, whilst out on a run / walk!
Also got 33733 on its first day out too!
https://youtu.be/Gwky_R3oMno
(Won't let me attach pictures here unfortunately - but posted lots on the various Facebook groups 👍)
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on November 11, 2020, 07:57:15 PM
(Won't let me attach pictures here unfortunately - but posted lots on the various Facebook groups 👍)
You can upload it to an image hosting site, and then use bbcode to embed it.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on November 11, 2020, 07:49:47 PM
Nigel just confirmed this on my Facebook post!
They are replacing tridents with these (Tridents going to Essex!).
Seeing as there's 5 Tridents and only 3 B7TLs to transfer from Leicester, has there been any mention of how the numbers will be made up ?
Quote from: Dylanbusboy45 on November 12, 2020, 03:33:39 PM
Seeing as there's 5 Tridents and only 3 B7TLs to transfer from Leicester, has there been any mention of how the numbers will be made up ?
Hopefully we'll be able to steal a couple from Potteries too! 37156 & 37158 would be nice. (And there younger than the 3 Leicester examples which would be a bonus! ;))
Quote from: Dylanbusboy45 on November 12, 2020, 03:33:39 PM
Seeing as there's 5 Tridents and only 3 B7TLs to transfer from Leicester, has there been any mention of how the numbers will be made up ?
He didn't say.
But 32643 (which did got to Potteries from Leicester at beginning of this year) was mentioned as going to Worcester previously.
Quote from: willr7 on November 12, 2020, 10:10:52 PM
Hopefully we'll be able to steal a couple from Potteries too! 37156 & 37158 would be nice. (And there younger than the 3 Leicester examples which would be a bonus! ;))
As predicted on the South Yorkshire Transport Forum, two more B7TLs, (53 plate), have been allocated to Potteries.
They are shown on the tracker, even if they haven't arrived yet.
This means Potteries has gained 5 extra DDs in recent times, and so my GUESS is that Worcester will get "any two" DDs
from Potteries to replace the two remaining Tridents. ( :'()
Quote from: DD12 on November 13, 2020, 10:57:31 AM
As predicted on the South Yorkshire Transport Forum, two more B7TLs, (53 plate), have been allocated to Potteries.
They are shown on the tracker, even if they haven't arrived yet.
This means Potteries has gained 5 extra DDs in recent times, and so my GUESS is that Worcester will get "any two" DDs
from Potteries to replace the two remaining Tridents. ( :'()
I guess they'll come over to Worcester, but are stopping on the way (probably whilst the restrictions on capacity remain)!
It's rather obvious we are now short on spare double deckers. Today 35171 was on the 38A and 18, and 35179 was on the 16/74.
I personally don't think branding the E400's up was a fantastic idea.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on November 16, 2020, 07:51:16 PM
It's rather obvious we are now short on spare double deckers. Today 35171 was on the 38A and 18, and 35179 was on the 16/74.
I personally don't think branding the E400's up was a fantastic idea.
I think it was more a case of a dodgey allocation- rather than them not having enough "ticket branded" spare Streetdecks (as these were on 54/22 anyway!)..
Leicester has more dd's now than it did have this time last year or last month!
Spare 35169 & 35192 were both on 54! So these should of been put on 16/74 and the 38A instead! At least they are Fuscia.. so no one would of known! If an Orange E400 came along it would be different!
35171 was called onto 18 later on due to a vehicle breakdown.
Does anyone happen to know whether 35151 has been debranded?
It's been on the 22 twice this week and now the 26.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on November 21, 2020, 09:58:41 AM
Does anyone happen to know whether 35151 has been debranded?
It's been on the 22 twice this week and now the 26.
Not too sure. But I did notice that too - so maybe it is. I will keep a lookout if not confirmed here!
(Also not sure how but I knocked the down thumb, and not sure how to remove it!!).
35190 seems to be struggling with service 13.
Broken down yesterday morning, and then broken down this afternoon too (54 branded 35180 replacing it this afternoon).
Hopefully nothing too serious.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on November 21, 2020, 09:58:41 AM
Does anyone happen to know whether 35151 has been debranded?
It's been on the 22 twice this week and now the 26.
35151 was back on 14/14A today (Tuesday 24/11/20) - I can confirm it has lost its route branding for 14/14A but has NOT (yet) received any generic branding so just has an empty area where the branding used to be.
Mike T.
69442 has gained Saffron branding for the 88/A.
The bus times website has now removed route numbers from all the Streetdecks, and the 25/26 street lites..
Is that a sign of something coming?
Have all 7 E400's arrived?
Bus times just displaying 6?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on December 08, 2020, 10:16:21 PM
Have all 7 E400's arrived?
Bus times just displaying 6?
It's 33728 which is no longer showing but that has never tracked on the system - I don't know how the Bustimes systems work but I have noticed other vehicles disappear from the lists after a length of time not tracking so it may just be automatic - 63353 went missing for a long time and I suspect the recent track (4th November) may either have been a test or the machine was installed in a different bus but the fleet number not updated.
33728 isn't included on the full list of First vehicles either.
Quote from: xmj-signal on December 13, 2020, 07:39:12 PM
It's 33728 which is no longer showing but that has never tracked on the system - I don't know how the Bustimes systems work but I have noticed other vehicles disappear from the lists after a length of time not tracking so it may just be automatic - 63353 went missing for a long time and I suspect the recent track (4th November) may either have been a test or the machine was installed in a different bus but the fleet number not updated.
33728 isn't included on the full list of First vehicles either.
63353 definitely didn't go out in service. It's been in the depot since November 2019 needing repair to something or the other. It's usually at the front of the depot with many of its panels off.
66316 has now moved to Worcester, I assume it's been exchanged for another Streetlite which will be this year's Santa bus.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on December 17, 2020, 08:42:20 PM
66316 has now moved to Worcester, I assume it's been exchanged for another Streetlite which will be this year's Santa bus.
63360 is here as the Christmas bus.
Read on Facebook (again lots of conflicting information), all 02 plate Volvos are off to Worcester - and all Worcester's (full size) Streetlites are coming to Leicester.
There was previously mention of 2 07 plate Plaxton Centros coming from Worcester too.
I guess we will see as next week is the last full week before they all go Euro 6!
66320, rather than going to Worcester, has been confirmed as becoming preserved after Leicester is done with it.
Can anyone confirm whether 35174 is sitting in the depot?
I believe I might've seen it sitting upfront of the depot having been repaired.
35174 has been confirmed back at Abbey Lane, awaiting Mot and final prep
63359 appears to have joined 63360 at Leicester. Just 3 remain at Worcester now! (63361 - 3)
Looks like the final E400 (33728 - SN12 ALO) has entered service today on the 14/14A ;)
Quote from: willr7 on December 30, 2020, 07:16:25 PM
Looks like the final E400 (33728 - SN12 ALO) has entered service today on the 14/14A ;)
Yep :)
35152 has been de-branded of the 14/A following its arrival.
66317 (KV02 VVU) is now at Worcester, while 63363 (SM65 WMG) is now at Leicester.
COVID sees service changes in Leicester from Sunday.
Not as big reduction in services compared to last lockdown, but most services have seen cut backs (particularly outside of peak times).
Interestingly service 13 keeps it's morning duplicate, and evening services, and service 17 stays at its usual 12 minute frequency. Bigger changes to 22 & 54 too.
Saffron 69380 ventured off route this afternoon / evening, running the peak journeys service 13!
It got held up for a whole hour (see bus times tracking) following a police incident around the Glenfield / New Park Boundary.
It's nice to see route branding off route on occasion! Makes for an unusual working 😉
35174 (SK16 GUG) has reentered service today.
Former First Leicester ALX400 32058 (W218 XBD) is being converted into a homeless shelter.
63353 is back in service - returned on Tuesday (23rd March).
35170 (SK16 GUC) has been stripped of its branding for the 22.
35171 (SK16 GUD) has also lost the branding for route 22
63102 (SM13 NCC) and 63103 (SM13 NCD) both have transferred to Adderley Green.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on April 27, 2021, 05:17:15 PM
63102 (SM13 NCC) and 63103 (SM13 NCD) both have transferred to Adderley Green.
Could this be to be re painted? Rather than actually transferring? I know they've done some painting in Potteries before?
Although.. these have already been painted recently so I guess not.
Can only think something to do with the Euro 6 scrapped.. we might get some older vehicles back (hoping for 32646 which is still in LCC livery in Worcester).
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on April 27, 2021, 06:33:04 PM
Could this be to be re painted? Rather than actually transferring? I know they've done some painting in Potteries before?
Although.. these have already been painted recently so I guess not.
Can only think something to do with the Euro 6 scrapped.. we might get some older vehicles back (hoping for 32646 which is still in LCC livery in Worcester).
Both repainted with Potteries names so guessing long term transfers
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on April 27, 2021, 06:33:04 PM
Could this be to be re painted? Rather than actually transferring? I know they've done some painting in Potteries before?
Although.. these have already been painted recently so I guess not.
Can only think something to do with the Euro 6 scrapped.. we might get some older vehicles back (hoping for 32646 which is still in LCC livery in Worcester).
Although the full clean air zone plan has been shelved, the news story in the Leicester Mercury (6th April) quoted a 'council spokesman' who said that "We
also have an agreement with the bus companies so that the city's buses meet or exceed Euro 6 - the highest standard for NO2 emissions in diesel engines - and we are electrifying our park and ride bus fleet" (my emphasis).
As the bus agreement seems to have been separate, the suggestion given is that it still applies and isn't affected by the cancellation of the rest of the plan so I wouldn't expect any non-Euro 6 vehicles to be coming back to Leicester (sorry!).
Noticed 3 white Levantes and 1 D/D in fleet colours from Skills and 2 D/D's and 1 coach from Roberts Hugglescoat park in Abbey Lane Yard yesterday, I presume on layover between school contracts.
Quote from: Mayfield on May 12, 2021, 07:44:30 PM
Noticed 3 white Levantes and 1 D/D in fleet colours from Skills and 2 D/D's and 1 coach from Roberts Hugglescoat park in Abbey Lane Yard yesterday, I presume on layover between school contracts.
Yep I've seen the Skills decker running around leicester too - it had 38A on the back display (I didn't see the front). So I guess they are indeed the vehicles they are using to support the main services as the closed schools services.
35170 (SK16 GUC) has received an overall advert, which is orange, for google.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on May 31, 2021, 06:02:16 PM
35170 (SK16 GUC) has received an overall advert, which is orange, for google.
According to bustimes, it's not been out for a while. (Beginning of July) Maybe the advert expired already?
Maybe they are working on a new branding for this bus?
Speaking of which, the Leicester website is showing from end of August (forthcoming timetables) the service 22 is split into a service 4 between City & Rushy mead, with 22 only running between city & Evington.
Makes sense what with Arriva 5 & 6 both running along Melton Road. I guess the 22 is more popular between city & Rushy Mead hence the change?
Will be interesting if the buses still run across the city, or whether both services actually operate separately.
22's timetable definitely still reflects gaps where centrebus 22A/B operates. I'd of thought by now there would be some sort of "normality" to the timetables, but maybe bus users habits have changed (noticed for example a lot more using the 13 recently during the evenings / nights too, and even 14's look busier than ever! - I think this is the first summer that 14/A hasn't actually reduced frequency for summer too).
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on August 03, 2021, 04:17:29 PM
Speaking of which, the Leicester website is showing from end of August (forthcoming timetables) the service 22 is split into a service 4 between City & Rushy mead, with 22 only running between city & Evington.
Makes sense what with Arriva 5 & 6 both running along Melton Road. I guess the 22 is more popular between city & Rushy Mead hence the change?
Will be interesting if the buses still run across the city, or whether both services actually operate separately.
22's timetable definitely still reflects gaps where centrebus 22A/B operates. I'd of thought by now there would be some sort of "normality" to the timetables, but maybe bus users habits have changed
Update: service updates are now listed on their website.
Includes also a change to service 16, plus details of the "new" 4, and 22
35176 (SK16 GUJ) and 35177 (SK16 GUO) have both been debranded from the 22 and now carry branding that promotes the tap on tap off scheme.
35172/3/4/5 have all been given revised 22 branding showing the combined frequency with Centrebus.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on August 26, 2021, 04:13:15 PM
35176 (SK16 GUJ) and 35177 (SK16 GUO) have both been debranded from the 22 and now carry branding that promotes the tap on tap off scheme.
35172/3/4/5 have all been given revised 22 branding showing the combined frequency with Centrebus.
The 4 and the 22 work independently, the 22 seems to use double deckers while the 4 is a mix of single and double deck buses.
The 22 branding is for '22 to & from Evington' with the by-line 'up to every 10 mins 22 | 22A' (22A being the Centrebus route).
Streetlites 63364, 63365 and 63366 have been route-branded for '4 to & from Rushey Mead' with the by-line 'every few mins along the Melton Road 4 ~ 5 ~ 6' (5 and 6 being the Arriva services - not forgetting 5A, which First appears to have done).
According to bustimes 35170 returned to service today (having not been out since July), on service 74 & 13.
Did anyone see if it's been rebranded from Google, back to spare, or is it still in the all over advertisement?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on September 08, 2021, 09:32:31 PM
According to bustimes 35170 returned to service today (having not been out since July), on service 74 & 13.
Did anyone see if it's been rebranded from Google, back to spare, or is it still in the all over advertisement?
Still with its all-over Google advertisement. Saw it on the 74 at 14:00.
Quote from: xmj-signal on September 02, 2021, 06:03:22 PM
The 4 and the 22 work independently, the 22 seems to use double deckers while the 4 is a mix of single and double deck buses.
The 22 branding is for '22 to & from Evington' with the by-line 'up to every 10 mins 22 | 22A' (22A being the Centrebus route).
Streetlites 63364, 63365 and 63366 have been route-branded for '4 to & from Rushey Mead' with the by-line 'every few mins along the Melton Road 4 ~ 5 ~ 6' (5 and 6 being the Arriva services - not forgetting 5A, which First appears to have done).
New timetable leaflets for routes 4 and 22 now available in the First travel centre - they're to a new, larger design.
Only other timetable leaflet currently available is for route 17 - this is the previous leaflet as 17 is the only route to have returned to the full pre-Covid timetable.
Quote from: xmj-signal on September 24, 2021, 12:46:23 AM
New timetable leaflets for routes 4 and 22 now available in the First travel centre - they're to a new, larger design.
Only other timetable leaflet currently available is for route 17 - this is the previous leaflet as 17 is the only route to have returned to the full pre-Covid timetable.
That's interesting..
I'd of thought by now these current timetables would be the main (new) timetables. As technically there's no longer any restrictions.
Although I do guess there's still a future service change coming (which would possibly also explain why bus stops haven't had the timetables updated).
35153 (SN65 OKE) has been repainted into the Frequent Fourteen's livery.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on October 05, 2021, 06:39:05 PM
35153 (SN65 OKE) has been repainted into the Frequent Fourteen's livery.
Full repaint into orange? Or just branding?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on October 06, 2021, 04:18:24 PM
Full repaint into orange? Or just branding?
Full repaint into orange.
Former First Leicester ALX400s 32070 and 32096 are now with Hawkes Coaches in Derby.
35155 now in orange too 👍
Apparently 35154 is next, and 35168.
35168 is back from repaint in to orange..
Currently in service, not yet had its 14 branding put on!
First Leicester is set to receive 68 new electric single-deck vehicles by 2024, after the city council bid for them under the ZEBRA scheme.
https://news.leicester.gov.uk/news-articles/2021/october/leicester-s-electric-bus-fleet-to-top-100-within-three-years-thanks-to-new-funding/
Source Facebook, so could be wrong:
Some E400's are on the way to Leicester for a new route in new year. Apparently an "Amazon" contract? (Usually Arriva do these so good on First getting in there!).
Looks like the fleet numbers are from the same batch that are already in Leicester.
Expected to be 33710, 33712, 33718, 33720 and 33725, all from South Yorkshire.
33697 (Frequent Fourteens) was seen on the M6/M69 in Coventry this morning.
Apparently it is route learning for the new Amazon service.
Definitely interesting as it's much further out than Leicester services usually run. I guess exact details will be kept under wraps.. as it could well be a private contract (which is just like Centrebus and the Bradgate Bakery Service which runs as BB).
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on December 29, 2021, 02:55:13 PM
Expected to be 33710, 33712, 33718, 33720 and 33725, all from South Yorkshire.
Correct.
These are all from the same former Manchester batch that in Leicester are all branded as "Frequent Fourteens"
This sounds very interesting indeed. When do these services launch?
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on December 29, 2021, 02:55:13 PM
Expected to be 33710, 33712, 33718, 33720 and 33725, all from South Yorkshire.
One of these buses did track on its way from Sheffield down to Abbey Lane today! However it tracked under the 33696 ticket machine.
See the bus times website, then click on 33696 and look for the 7:30am odd journey!
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on December 30, 2021, 10:32:06 PM
One of these buses did track on its way from Sheffield down to Abbey Lane today! However it tracked under the 33696 ticket machine.
See the bus times website, then click on 33696 and look for the 7:30am odd journey!
Or it could be 33696 was used to take the drivers back,
It's time with First Eastern Counties now finished, ALX400 32059 (W219 XBD) has been preserved and will be returning to Leicester.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on December 29, 2021, 02:55:13 PM
Expected to be 33710, 33712, 33718, 33720 and 33725, all from South Yorkshire.
Looks like these plans have changed. 33725 has reportedly gone back to Sheffield, while today I found myself stuck behind 33720 on the 54.
33712, 33718 and 33720 all entered service today on the 16/74, 38 and 54 respectively.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on January 17, 2022, 03:33:21 PM
Looks like these plans have changed. 33725 has reportedly gone back to Sheffield, while today I found myself stuck behind 33720 on the 54.
33725 never arrived according to this very website (with official fleet moves).
As mentioned before.. it was only speculation from Facebook and details were not confirmed.
I do know there is 4 so I'd expect the remaining one to come into service soon.
Amazon service starts on Monday.
33710 also entered service yesterday.
Does anyone know what route they will be doing for Amazon
Quote from: Mayfield on January 23, 2022, 07:25:21 PM
Does anyone know what route they will be doing for Amazon
The services are numbered after the hubs they run to, and both run direct. The BHX5 is for Rugby, and the warehouse is situated off the A426 just after exiting the M6, whereas the BHX7 is for Hinckley and is situated off the A5 just over the M69. However, that one diverts to serve the town centre first.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on January 24, 2022, 11:20:39 AM
The services are numbered after the hubs they run to, and both run direct. The BHX5 is for Rugby, and the warehouse is situated off the A426 just after exiting the M6, whereas the BHX7 is for Hinckley and is situated off the A5 just over the M69. However, that one diverts to serve the town centre first.
Correct.
If you head into bustimes website, click on first Leicester, then vehicles.. you'll see the 4 E400's with BHX5/7 and can see a tracked map.
Although, it isn't an exact guarantee it's correct. It gives a good idea.
Could be completely wrong here,
But I'm guessing that they park up 3 of the 4 E400's in Rugby during the day, with the 4th vehicle being used to transport the drivers back to Leicester.
I was thinking about this, wondering how much fuel they'd be using if they did all 4 come back.
Then today.. Bus Times has sort of showed us. Ok, whilst we cannot rely on it, I do think the routes are pretty good. Makes perfect sense for them to have not applied "Leicester" logos to the buses too.
Might be wrong.. maybe they all come back.
If anyone knows any more.. please let us know 👍
It looks like already First have abandoned using the E400s for the Amazon services and are instead using the Braunstone B7RLEs.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on February 18, 2022, 12:40:13 PM
It looks like already First have abandoned using the E400s for the Amazon services and are instead using the Braunstone B7RLEs.
I presume you haven't noticed the weather?
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on February 18, 2022, 12:40:13 PM
It looks like already First have abandoned using the E400s for the Amazon services and are instead using the Braunstone B7RLEs.
Reported elsewhere (by the MD) they're using single decks on the amazon routes to avoid using DDs down the M1 in a gale.
Quote from: Swiggy on February 18, 2022, 03:22:54 PM
Reported elsewhere (by the MD) they're using single decks on the amazon routes to avoid using DDs down the M1 in a gale.
Indeed.
Also the same for this evening on all evening routes around the city centre (including 13, 14 & 54 - which are usually decker evening routes).
35185 (SK16 GVF) has lost it's branding for service 54.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on March 08, 2022, 02:13:45 PM
35185 (SK16 GVF) has lost it's branding for service 54.
Might be because the 54 is being split up temporarily due to the closure of Abbey Park Road for 9 months
Also debranding allows them to have more unbranded deckers to use on other routes
Details of the changes (including to 25/26) are on the first website: https://www.firstbus.co.uk/leicester/news-and-service-updates/planned-changes/changes-services-2526-54-sunday-20-march-2022
Quote from: Swiggy on March 08, 2022, 08:11:30 PM
Might be because the 54 is being split up temporarily due to the closure of Abbey Park Road for 9 months
Also debranding allows them to have more unbranded deckers to use on other routes
Details of the changes (including to 25/26) are on the first website: https://www.firstbus.co.uk/leicester/news-and-service-updates/planned-changes/changes-services-2526-54-sunday-20-march-2022
Yes, I presumed if it was because of that.
Appears 35180 and 35186 have also been debranded, with the later being on the 16/74 and the former being on evening 13's.
Anyone know why 33720 has been back on Leicester City services while 69303 has been on the Amazon runs?
From what I have just seen at Haymarket bus station StreetDecks 35181, 35185 and 35186 have been re-branded for tap on tap off - they were previously branded for route 54 (Goodwood to Beaumont Centre)
Edit: 35184 has been rebranded too
35170 (SK16 GUC) was involved in a collision on Humberstone Gate on Monday.
Damage seemed minimal, but based on the nature of the collision, there is no information of whether or not it will return to service in Leicester. Someone has marked it as withdrawn on bustimes.org, which I don't entirely trust.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on March 15, 2022, 10:40:33 PM
35170 (SK16 GUC) was involved in a collision on Humberstone Gate on Monday.
Damage seemed minimal, but based on the nature of the collision, there is no information of whether or not it will return to service in Leicester. Someone has marked it as withdrawn on bustimes.org, which I don't entirely trust.
Seems once again people quickly jumping onto bus times and editing things without actually knowing what's happening!
If damage is minimal, it will most likely be back in service soon.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on March 08, 2022, 10:25:29 PM
Yes, I presumed if it was because of that.
Appears 35180 and 35186 have also been debranded, with the later being on the 16/74 and the former being on evening 13's.
Anyone know why 33720 has been back on Leicester City services while 69303 has been on the Amazon runs?
I would guess the afternoon Amazon Route 7 is not as busy as originally expected, hence they can now operate it with a single decker. Looks like it's still using a double decker in the morning though.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 16, 2022, 05:40:12 AM!
If damage is minimal, it will most likely be back in service soon.
35170 back in service today.
Service 12 is being withdrawn on the 23rd April.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on April 13, 2022, 04:20:54 PMService 12 is being withdrawn on the 23rd April.
According to the first website, Leicester City Council are in consultation with Centrebus to alter their 162 service to cover Stephenson Drive and Park Rise.
https://www.firstbus.co.uk/leicester/news-and-service-updates/planned-changes/changes-service-12-24-april-2022
**update**
Centrebus are changing their service 162 to cover Stephenson Drive and Park Rise areas of the 12 service
Details: www.centrebus.info/bus-services/leicester-city/162/
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on April 13, 2022, 04:20:54 PMService 12 is being withdrawn on the 23rd April.
The 12 was not part of the new "Leicester Buses" plan.. so this would partly explain why it has been removed.
But also numbers of passengers are very low. (Hence it never returned to the higher frequency after lockdown).
The revised 162 I believe will be formed into the new bus plan as part of the "Flexi Lines"!
35186 was chosen to be part of the vaisakhi festival today. It left the depot around 9am, picked up at East Park Road, before heading around the city centre to the bus stop on StNicholas circle..
It then made a very rare (&slow) trip through High Street & Humberstone Gate as part of the parade.. before heading back to the temple on East Park Road.
First were joined by an Arriva double decker, and a vintage coach as part of the parade too.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on May 01, 2022, 04:18:57 PM35186 was chosen to be part of the vaisakhi festival today. It left the depot around 9am, picked up at East Park Road, before heading around the city centre to the bus stop on StNicholas circle..
It then made a very rare (&slow) trip through High Street & Humberstone Gate as part of the parade.. before heading back to the temple on East Park Road.
First were joined by an Arriva double decker, and a vintage coach as part of the parade too.
The arriva decker was E400mmc 4514 (YX16 OJO)
Photos of the trio used have been posted on the LTHT facebook group: https://facebook.com/groups/143389412374259/
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on May 01, 2022, 04:18:57 PM35186 was chosen to be part of the vaisakhi festival today. It left the depot around 9am, picked up at East Park Road, before heading around the city centre to the bus stop on StNicholas circle..
It then made a very rare (&slow) trip through High Street & Humberstone Gate as part of the parade.. before heading back to the temple on East Park Road.
First were joined by an Arriva double decker, and a vintage coach as part of the parade too.
35181/2/9/35191 were also used 👍
Possibly another Amazon Route being considered by Leicester.
A friend saw a First bus in Daventry today close to BhX3 Warehouse.
On looking at Bustimes it seems that L Leaner bus went there and then off to Coventry.. (although maybe it was a different vehicle using that ticket machine)
Not sure if they were just heading as a one off, or whether there's a potential future service?
BHX3 is indeed a new service which will run from Daventry to Coventry (https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/594046/).
33825 (SN63 MYH) has been reported as transferring to Leicester for this new contract; this was allegedly stated in a facebook group, don't know which as it's a private group that I'm not in.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on May 10, 2022, 05:15:40 PMBHX3 is indeed a new service which will run from Daventry to Coventry (https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/594046/).
33825 (SN63 MYH) has been reported as transferring to Leicester for this new contract; this was allegedly stated in a facebook group, don't know which as it's a private group that I'm not in.
Makes sense 👍
63250 (SN15 ABF) has lost its Leicester branding and has instead gained branding for the Queens Jubilee.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on May 12, 2022, 09:23:11 AM63250 (SN15 ABF) has lost its Leicester branding and has instead gained branding for the Queens Jubilee.
seen it on the 38 yesterday and it's looks like it has been repainted as its shiny
Worcester depot have Streetlite 47518 is in the same livery: http://forum.midlandred.net/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=11568
A blue fully electric double decker (Streetdeck) is due to run in service for a few weeks on trial next week.
On the Facebook pages it was mentioned it's with First Leicester for 2 weeks, then off to Arriva Thurmaston for 2 weeks.
71 plate.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on May 21, 2022, 10:51:17 PMA blue fully electric double decker (Streetdeck) is due to run in service for a few weeks on trial next week.
On the Facebook pages it was mentioned it's with First Leicester for 2 weeks, then off to Arriva Thurmaston for 2 weeks.
71 plate.
its a Wright Electroliner registration LY71 GJE
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on May 21, 2022, 10:51:17 PMA blue fully electric double decker (Streetdeck) is due to run in service for a few weeks on trial next week.
On the Facebook pages it was mentioned it's with First Leicester for 2 weeks, then off to Arriva Thurmaston for 2 weeks.
71 plate.
Now understood to be with Arriva at Thurmaston
Can't seem to find online yet, other than Bus Times..
Looks like BHX5/7 have both been cancelled (from 31st July) - maybe another operator is picking them up? Or perhaps not if they didn't do so well?
Also noticed changes been put in for service 13, 14 & 14A from 31st July.
Plus finally 12 has been registered as cancelled again from 31st July (although first announced it was cancelled already, it was technically registered as "temporary suspension").
Could first have seen sense and added a Sunday service for the 13? And maybe perhaps decided to send some 14's around Park Rise?
Or do we think these changes could actually be to reduce the 14/A frequency back to 7/8mins rather than 6?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on June 21, 2022, 01:11:31 PMCan't seem to find online yet, other than Bus Times..
Looks like BHX5/7 have both been cancelled (from 31st July) - maybe another operator is picking them up? Or perhaps not if they didn't do so well?
Also noticed changes been put in for service 13, 14 & 14A from 31st July.
Plus finally 12 has been registered as cancelled again from 31st July (although first announced it was cancelled already, it was technically registered as "temporary suspension").
Could first have seen sense and added a Sunday service for the 13? And maybe perhaps decided to send some 14's around Park Rise?
Or do we think these changes could actually be to reduce the 14/A frequency back to 7/8mins rather than 6?
Hopefully a more reliable timetable on the 14s 🤞
Possible increase in weekend frequency for the 13? Saturdays are hourly still
It appears that First will be running the 22B on Saturdays only to Birstall, commencing on the 6th August.
https://bustimes.org/licences/PF0007035
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on July 11, 2022, 09:07:33 AMIt appears that First will be running I the 22B on Saturdays only to Birstall, commencing on the 6th August.
https://bustimes.org/licences/PF0007035
Now that is a surprise!
Wonder why they've done that? Leicester city council pay the tender for that service. So usually it's Centrebus that run those?
Also noticed BHX5 has been re registered.. it means only BHX7 is cancelled.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on July 11, 2022, 09:07:33 AMIt appears that First will be running the 22B on Saturdays only to Birstall, commencing on the 6th August.
https://bustimes.org/licences/PF0007035
Nice to see first getting a tender even if it is only for Saturday's
this change also sees First serving Birstall for the first time in quite a few years - think the last time was the 70a?
That is correct. Passed to Centrebus in September 2010, and later became the 22A.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on July 11, 2022, 09:07:33 AMIt appears that First will be running the 22B on Saturdays only to Birstall, commencing on the 6th August.
https://bustimes.org/licences/PF0007035
Timetable for the 22B is now on the first website along with the new 14/14a and part of the 13 timetable
Quote from: SSmith2009 on July 19, 2022, 07:31:17 PMTimetable for the 22B is now on the first website along with the new 14/14a and part of the 13 timetable
Full 13 is now there.. like the 14/A it just seems to be minor tweaks rather than a full change. (A shame, they really could of done with a Sunday on the 13!).
Noticed the 13 will no longer terminate as such at Park Drive, and instead appears to just run a continuous loop terminating at Haymarket (where it waits a slightly longer time!). The 2155 departure which currently waits 15mins at park Drive.. will now wait time inside the Optimus Point industrial estate!
22B is only Saturday, and nothing from Centrebus, which could mean that they'll still be running their 22A around the same part of Birstall also!
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on July 23, 2022, 11:59:52 PMFull 13 is now there.. like the 14/A it just seems to be minor tweaks rather than a full change. (A shame, they really could of done with a Sunday on the 13!).
Noticed the 13 will no longer terminate as such at Park Drive, and instead appears to just run a continuous loop terminating at Haymarket (where it waits a slightly longer time!). The 2155 departure which currently waits 15mins at park Drive.. will now wait time inside the Optimus Point industrial estate!
22B is only Saturday, and nothing from Centrebus, which could mean that they'll still be running their 22A around the same part of Birstall also!
The 14/14a has a peak time reduction to every 15 mins each similar to how the 4 does (drops from 10 to 12 mins)
There will be changes in timetabling for all routes except the 54 on the 28th August 2022.
https://bustimes.org/licences/PF0007035
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on July 26, 2022, 10:24:06 PMThere will be changes in timetabling for all routes except the 54 on the 28th August 2022.
https://bustimes.org/licences/PF0007035
I believe this is more just bringing them in line with the "Leicester Buses"! In September all operators should be providing a joint timetable where routes interlink, so I guess this is just a start for that.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on July 26, 2022, 10:24:06 PMThere will be changes in timetabling for all routes except the 54 on the 28th August 2022.
https://bustimes.org/licences/PF0007035
Arriva also have some changes from 27th August
Oddly bustimes have the Rugby - Lutterworth X84 and Coalville - Swad 29's as cancelled
https://bustimes.org/licences/PF0007085
Not 100% on this, but could the X84 be merged into the 84?
I feel they interwork together anyway?
Quote from: SSmith2009 on July 27, 2022, 09:58:23 AMArriva also have some changes from 27th August
Oddly bustimes have the Rugby - Lutterworth X84 and Coalville - Swad 29's as cancelled
https://bustimes.org/licences/PF00070851
https://bustimes.org/registrations/PF0007085/218
X84 Lei has "revised route and timetable" listed as a reason for the change on that date.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on July 26, 2022, 11:00:34 PMI believe this is more just bringing them in line with the "Leicester Buses"! In September all operators should be providing a joint timetable where routes interlink, so I guess this is just a start for that.
From what bustimes.org shows for timetables in September it looks like cuts to some routes but the 13 shows a Sunday service during the daytimes
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on July 27, 2022, 04:55:22 PMNot 100% on this, but could the X84 be merged into the 84?
I feel they interwork together anyway?
They don't interwork, they're not even run from the same depot.
It used to interwork with the 85, but not since April's reductions.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on July 23, 2022, 11:59:52 PMFull 13 is now there.. like the 14/A it just seems to be minor tweaks rather than a full change. (A shame, they really could of done with a Sunday on the 13!).
Noticed the 13 will no longer terminate as such at Park Drive, and instead appears to just run a continuous loop terminating at Haymarket (where it waits a slightly longer time!). The 2155 departure which currently waits 15mins at park Drive.. will now wait time inside the Optimus Point industrial estate!
22B is only Saturday, and nothing from Centrebus, which could mean that they'll still be running their 22A around the same part of Birstall also!
https://www.centrebus.info/service-changes/ - clicking on the 'View Timetable' link for the 22A shows that Centrebus' Saturday timetable will be only city centre to Evington from 06/08/2022. They will not be running to Birstall on Saturdays. First's 22B will be the only route along Birstall Road on Saturdays.
Quote from: SSmith2009 on July 11, 2022, 01:31:53 PMNice to see first getting a tender even if it is only for Saturday's
this change also sees First serving Birstall for the first time in quite a few years - think the last time was the 70a?
Not quite - the 70A was city centre to Blackmore Drive. The last time First operated to Birstall, it was route 70 to Windmill Avenue.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on July 30, 2022, 06:37:52 PMhttps://www.centrebus.info/service-changes/ - clicking on the 'View Timetable' link for the 22A shows that Centrebus' Saturday timetable will be only city centre to Evington from 06/08/2022. They will not be running to Birstall on Saturdays. First's 22B will be the only route along Birstall Road on Saturdays.
Correct. But at time I posted this comment, there was no details from Centrebus!
Quote from: 47609FireFly on July 30, 2022, 06:39:40 PMNot quite - the 70A was city centre to Blackmore Drive. The last time First operated to Birstall, it was route 70 to Windmill Avenue.
I always thought it was 70A as I used it to get home from college. Centrebus also used 70A until later changing to 22A. (With 1 70A being run by a Grantham depot bus).
Quote from: 47609FireFly on July 30, 2022, 06:39:40 PMNot quite - the 70A was city centre to Blackmore Drive. The last time First operated to Birstall, it was route 70 to Windmill Avenue.
You've got it the other way round. It was initially the cross-city 70, Windmill Avenue to Blackmore Drive, then around 2009, it was split so the 70 was just Leicester to Blackmore Drive, with Leicester to Windmill Avenue becoming the 70A. That then passed to Centrebus in September 2010, as Centrebus already ran the 70B to Harrogate Drive in Birstall. Then the following year they became part of the 22A and 22B.
The 70 remained in operation until October 2013 when it became part of the 16. This change was undone in August 2016 with the Blackmore Drive section re-numbered as the 20 as it is today. It was First run initially, before passing to Centrebus in October 2019.
Big Service changes announced.. despite the fact they seemed to have actually reduced frequency's (opposite to what the new bus plan was supposed to do?) on most routes, there are positives:
4, 14/A, 17, 21, 22, 88/A/E, gets improvements to help with reliability.
13 gets Sunday, and Saturday reverts back to every 30 mins..
25/26 increases frequency..
However..
16 downgraded to 30mins Mon-Sat
38/A downgraded to 7/8combined Mon-Fri
74 downgraded to 20mins Mon-Fri
Both seem to have also lost inter working
18 downgraded to 20mins Mon-Fri
Sunday service downgraded to every 60mins on service 16 & 18.
Sunday service reduced to 30mins on the 22
No changes to 13W, 22B, 54 (or Amazon Shuttles BHX3, BHX5)
Full timetables are online under forthcoming.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on August 09, 2022, 10:52:07 PMBig Service changes announced.. despite the fact they seemed to have actually reduced frequency's (opposite to what the new bus plan was supposed to do?) on most routes, there are positives:
4, 14/A, 17, 21, 22, 88/A/E, gets improvements to help with reliability.
13 gets Sunday, and Saturday reverts back to every 30 mins..
25/26 increases frequency..
38/A increases frequency
However..
16 downgraded to 30mins Mon-Sat
74 downgraded to 20mins Mon-Fri
Both seem to have also lost inter working
18 downgraded to 20mins Mon-Fri
Sunday service downgraded to every 60mins on service 16 & 18.
Sunday service reduced to 30mins on the 22
No changes to 13W, 22B, 54 (or Amazon Shuttles BHX3, BHX5)
Full timetables are online under forthcoming.
Services 14/14A and 38/38A have hidden reductions to weekday timetables too
These changes should see a lower PVR by around 5 buses
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on August 09, 2022, 10:52:07 PMBig Service changes announced.. despite the fact they seemed to have actually reduced frequency's (opposite to what the new bus plan was supposed to do?) on most routes, there are positives:
4, 14/A, 17, 21, 22, 88/A/E, gets improvements to help with reliability.
13 gets Sunday, and Saturday reverts back to every 30 mins..
25/26 increases frequency..
38/A increases frequency
However..
16 downgraded to 30mins Mon-Sat
74 downgraded to 20mins Mon-Fri
Both seem to have also lost inter working
18 downgraded to 20mins Mon-Fri
Sunday service downgraded to every 60mins on service 16 & 18.
Sunday service reduced to 30mins on the 22
No changes to 13W, 22B, 54 (or Amazon Shuttles BHX3, BHX5)
Full timetables are online under forthcoming.
A complete joke considering this new Leicester Buses scheme was supposed to improve frequency's and connectivity, and First have gone and done the complete opposite except on the 13.
Completely dumbfounded as to why the 22 is having a Sunday reduction when the route is usually fairly busy. Would've made more sense to swap the Streetdecks for Streetlites on a Sunday and kept the frequency as was.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on August 10, 2022, 01:44:28 PMA complete joke considering this new Leicester Buses scheme was supposed to improve frequency's and connectivity, and First have gone and done the complete opposite except on the 13.
Completely dumbfounded as to why the 22 is having a Sunday reduction when the route is usually fairly busy. Would've made more sense to swap the Streetdecks for Streetlites on a Sunday and kept the frequency as was.
13 & 25/26 seem to have came out of this review much better than the other routes.
However, I think overall these slight changes are probably better in the long run. If it makes them more sustainable. At least they've not cancelled a lot of routes like they have in Worcester.
My guess is 16 & 74 will become fully double decker (now that they no longer need the full 5 deckers on Amazon shuttles - just 3 required now). They did trial the electric decker on these routes also.
As for 22, I cannot comment as I haven't seen it on Sundays. But from what I've heard numbers are down compared to pre-covid. (Hence why they split it in the first place).
On the other side 13 seems to have more passengers than a few years ago (mainly due to the Optimus point industrial estate development / Birch lane)
Looks like 25/26 is back to pre-covid too!
Something I am surprised is the 88/A hasn't reverted back to pre-covid timetables. It's time they adjusted the branding, as some buses are still showing the "every 5 mins" branding which seems not to be the case anymore.
I'm sure further changes / reviews will take place though. Is the new Leicester buses plan "Fully funded" yet?
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on August 10, 2022, 01:44:28 PMA complete joke considering this new Leicester Buses scheme was supposed to improve frequency's and connectivity, and First have gone and done the complete opposite except on the 13.
It's just getting worse. First are just following what Arriva have done, and as a result of all these cuts, Kinchbus have gone one step further and will soon be scrapping the 2 between Leicester and Sileby.
This scheme is not at all going to plan.
First has confirmed that our upcoming electric vehicles will be built by Wrightbus.
https://news.firstbus.co.uk/news/first-bus-places-one-of-uks-largest-ever-ev-bus-orders-with-uk-manufacturer-wrightbus-following-dft-zebra-funding-award
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on August 31, 2022, 12:49:58 PMFirst has confirmed that our upcoming electric vehicles will be built by Wrightbus.
https://news.firstbus.co.uk/news/first-bus-places-one-of-uks-largest-ever-ev-bus-orders-with-uk-manufacturer-wrightbus-following-dft-zebra-funding-award
Surprised it says 20 double deckers and 173 single deckers.. I expected first as a whole to have ordered more double deckers (unless they plan to do that next time, as I know the previous company they were buying from was only offering single deckers).
After trials of the "Electroliner" here in Leicester.. I honestly hope that some of the 20 double deckers will come to Leicester (but probably not!).
What was good, I travelled on Sunday on the 13 and was good to see passengers using it! Hoping this will continue.. Today it was published in the local Glenfield newspaper so information is now out there!
I also used 13 today and the double decker was busy (1.20pm from city) (hence why I question what's going to happen if literally all Leicester's buses are replaced by singles).
Also - anyone noticed the First Twitter team seems to have been removed? Is this cost cutting perhaps?
Lastly, something I was also wondering.. how does the multi operator capping work? (£5 day). I went on 162 and 104. After this ride 104 was capped. I then used 13 (and capped - no payment)..
do first get anything for this journey? Maybe from LCC?
Or are the operators loosing out?
Perhaps somewhat unexpectedly, there is now a full set of August 2022 timetable leaflets (with the exception of the 22B) available in the First travel shop just outside the Haymarket shopping centre.
This would suggest that the current services are expected to stay unchanged for some time - however, the 74 timetable will need to be reprinted almost immediately due to the move of the city centre starting point from Haymarket Bus Station (as shown in the leaflet) to St Margaret's Bus Station, from 2nd October.
Unfortunately, there are a couple of errors:
the map in the 16 leaflet shows Gedding Road being used in both directions rather than inward only (outward journeys run via Gwendolen Road and Drinkstone Road)
the map in the 25/26 leaflet shows these routes running along Abbey Park Road (they currently actually run via Ravensbridge Drive and Blackbird Road) although the map in the 54 leaflet correctly shows the route running via St Margaret's Way rather than Abbey Park Road
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on August 31, 2022, 11:20:22 PMSurprised it says 20 double deckers and 173 single deckers.. I expected first as a whole to have ordered more double deckers (unless they plan to do that next time, as I know the previous company they were buying from was only offering single deckers).
After trials of the "Electroliner" here in Leicester.. I honestly hope that some of the 20 double deckers will come to Leicester (but probably not!).
What was good, I travelled on Sunday on the 13 and was good to see passengers using it! Hoping this will continue.. Today it was published in the local Glenfield newspaper so information is now out there!
I also used 13 today and the double decker was busy (1.20pm from city) (hence why I question what's going to happen if literally all Leicester's buses are replaced by singles).
Also - anyone noticed the First Twitter team seems to have been removed? Is this cost cutting perhaps?
Lastly, something I was also wondering.. how does the multi operator capping work? (£5 day). I went on 162 and 104. After this ride 104 was capped. I then used 13 (and capped - no payment)..
do first get anything for this journey? Maybe from LCC?
Or are the operators loosing out?
I was of the understanding that all of the order was to be double deckers.
anyone able to confirm if 69438 is in for repaint?
33710 has transferred to Somerset.
A range of vehicles from First were used this evening on a temporary Birstall P&R running for the Diwali celebrations.
Registered by First Bus, and operating via Loughborough Road, Red hill circle, Abbey lane, St Margaret's Way & to Belgrave circle. Buses were mainly First single deckers. But also noted some Beaver Double deckers running the route to provide support too.
No vehicles however tracked on Bus Times. I also didn't see what vehicles were used early on in the evening. But I'd imagine beaver and confidence may have provided support too?
To also note rare working: A Frequent Fourteens double decker was used on service 4 throughout the evening. (Perhaps to provide increased double decker output for the Belgrave area).
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on October 24, 2022, 10:39:37 PMA range of vehicles from First were used this evening on a temporary Birstall P&R running for the Diwali celebrations.
Registered by First Bus, and operating via Loughborough Road, Red hill circle, Abbey lane, St Margaret's Way & to Belgrave circle. Buses were mainly First single deckers. But also noted some Beaver Double deckers running the route to provide support too.
No vehicles however tracked on Bus Times. I also didn't see what vehicles were used early on in the evening. But I'd imagine beaver and confidence may have provided support too?
To also note rare working: A Frequent Fourteens double decker was used on service 4 throughout the evening. (Perhaps to provide increased double decker output for the Belgrave area).
63072 and 69303 were two of the vehicles used on the 403 from photos posted elsewhere.
According to bustimes.org 35155 replaced 63366 on the 4 today, last week it was on the Goodwood side of the 54 (Friday 21st Oct)
69249, 69251 and 69252 are all currently at Thornton's, with 69250 expected to follow soon.
Allegedly being converted to driver trainers, but unsure of how true that is.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on October 27, 2022, 05:47:46 PM69249, 69251 and 69252 are all currently at Thornton's, with 69250 expected to follow soon.
Allegedly being converted to driver trainers, but unsure of how true that is.
A comment on the 'Firstbus Enthusiasts' facebook group suggests that 69249, 69250, 69251 and 69252 are being converted to driver trainers at thorntons.
Leicester depot have recently had a PVR reduction of around 8 vehicles, this must be how they've managed to release them. Hopefully reducing the amount of branded saffron buses helps to prevent having branded buses on other routes.
Quote from: SSmith2009 on October 27, 2022, 09:03:20 PMA comment on the 'Firstbus Enthusiasts' facebook group suggests that 69249, 69250, 69251 and 69252 are being converted to driver trainers at thorntons.
Leicester depot have recently had a PVR reduction of around 8 vehicles, this must be how they've managed to release them. Hopefully reducing the amount of branded saffron buses helps to prevent having branded buses on other
Euro 6 driver trainers.. well that will be a first for First!
I guess this is one of the first major decisions from the new MD now that Leicester falls also under Manchester.
Although actually.. I'd say getting rid of old ready for the new Electric ones..
Further changes expected to Amazon Shuttles too, BHX3 is cancelled from end of Nov - I guess a decision the new Md has decided due to all the extra mileage.. This also probably explains why they've sent the "Olympia" E400's packing..
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on October 27, 2022, 10:57:36 PMEuro 6 driver trainers.. well that will be a first for First!
I guess this is one of the first major decisions from the new MD now that Leicester falls also under Manchester.
Although actually.. I'd say getting rid of old ready for the new Electric ones..
According to the Leicester buses website the infrastructure at Abbey Lane plus the first 20 electric buses should be in place by March 2023... we shall see!
details - https://www.leicesterbuses.co.uk/planned-projects
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on October 27, 2022, 10:57:36 PMFurther changes expected to Amazon Shuttles too, BHX3 is cancelled from end of Nov - I guess a decision the new Md has decided due to all the extra mileage.. This also probably explains why they've sent the "Olympia" E400's packing..
Probably why the FrequentFourteens enviros have been on the amazon routes then leaving missing buses on 14s
Quote from: SSmith2009 on October 28, 2022, 09:14:13 AMAccording to the Leicester buses website the infrastructure at Abbey Lane plus the first 20 electric buses should be in place by March 2023... we shall see!
details - https://www.leicesterbuses.co.uk/planned-projects
Probably why the FrequentFourteens enviros have been on the amazon routes then leaving missing buses on 14s
There aren't missing buses on the 14's.. they've had a full allocation. Just the stupid amount of roadworks in Leicester and the diversion at Gravel Street also. The buses are backing up. Like today.. 3 14's all following each other along Dominion Road! (Around 1.35pm). They had extra street decks on the route while the orange E400's were on BHX (E400's are more fuel efficient on the motorway?).
Also, why is stagecoach listed on the Leicester buses website as having 22 electric vehicles? They aren't based here and there's literally 2 routes which are out of the city boundary?
Makes you laugh. Happy to pay stagecoach for the electric buses. But won't pay for a few digital bus stops around Glenfield (on route 13, which is a mainlines bus!).
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on October 28, 2022, 05:57:59 PMAlso, why is stagecoach listed on the Leicester buses website as having 22 electric vehicles? They aren't based here and there's literally 2 routes which are out of the city boundary?
Makes you laugh. Happy to pay stagecoach for the electric buses. But won't pay for a few digital bus stops around Glenfield (on route 13, which is a mainlines bus!).
The only digital bus stops I've seen in the county are opposite the Sainsbury's at Fosse Park and on Paddock Street in Wigston.
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on October 28, 2022, 09:58:17 PMThe only digital bus stops I've seen in the county are opposite the Sainsbury's at Fosse Park and on Paddock Street in Wigston.
There's some around on Arriva 127 route too (in Mountsorel, Rothley, Quorn etc).
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on October 28, 2022, 05:57:59 PMAlso, why is stagecoach listed on the Leicester buses website as having 22 electric vehicles? They aren't based here and there's literally 2 routes which are out of the city boundary?
Makes you laugh. Happy to pay stagecoach for the electric buses. But won't pay for a few digital bus stops around Glenfield (on route 13, which is a mainlines bus!).
They will be from the Coventry "Electric Bus City" project, converting the 48 group (Coventry - Nuneaton - Atherstone/Leicester), so the funding is from Central Government that was awarded to the wider project (which sees all buses into Coventry go zero-emission by 2025, and NXWM's large batch of BYD/ADL 'deckers entering service at the moment are the first part of). That they reach Leicester is something of a side benefit!
Quote from: f_27 on October 09, 2022, 10:21:14 AManyone able to confirm if 69438 is in for repaint?
Just a confirmation, in case anyone was still wondering - 69438 was seen out in service yesterday, on route 18, and still in full 'Braunstone Bus' livery and route branding.
33718 is still in Leicester (despite reports it has left). It has been repaired following a RTC. It's expected to stay in Leicester for the revised BHX5 timetable end of Nov.
BHX3 has been cancelled, hence the other 3 "Olympia" E400's moving away.
Noticed on bus times today, 38, 14/A & 22B have all moved to the "cancelled" section.
I'm guessing the 22B hasn't been a success For First and has been "re tendered" probably back to Centrebus? (First have had to let Centrebus customers use Centrebus tickets on this route).
I guess 14/A may be split as 14 has been a lot busier since Arriva cancelled? (14/15??)
Plus registration still says Sunningdale Road which isn't the case anymore.. so maybe that's just to update?
38/A - not sure?
Be interesting to see if anyone has any other ideas / thoughts..
Surprised they've not decided to run the 88E all day on Sunday's (30 mins).. notice a lot of people asking for more buses down there (since Arriva cancelled 87).
Quote from: SSmith2009 on October 28, 2022, 09:14:13 AMAccording to the Leicester buses website the infrastructure at Abbey Lane plus the first 20 electric buses should be in place by March 2023... we shall see!
details - https://www.leicesterbuses.co.uk/planned-projects
Which of the electric buses will be in place by this time?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on November 17, 2022, 02:47:30 PMNoticed on bus times today, 38, 14/A & 22B have all moved to the "cancelled" section.
I'm guessing the 22B hasn't been a success For First and has been "re tendered" probably back to Centrebus? (First have had to let Centrebus customers use Centrebus tickets on this route).
I guess 14/A may be split as 14 has been a lot busier since Arriva cancelled? (14/15??)
Plus registration still says Sunningdale Road which isn't the case anymore.. so maybe that's just to update?
38/A - not sure?
Be interesting to see if anyone has any other ideas / thoughts..
Surprised they've not decided to run the 88E all day on Sunday's (30 mins).. notice a lot of people asking for more buses down there (since Arriva cancelled 87).
They're not cancelled the dvsa website has them down as variations to service
Agree with the 88E - Eyres Monsell need more Sunday buses at one stage the 88/88a were every 20 mins each on Sundays now they're hourly if you're lucky
Quote from: SSmith2009 on November 17, 2022, 06:24:06 PMThey're not cancelled the dvsa website has them down as variations to service
Agree with the 88E - Eyres Monsell need more Sunday buses at one stage the 88/88a were every 20 mins each on Sundays now they're hourly if you're lucky
Indeed.. bus times website has them under the wrong section.
Looks like BHX3 is still operating. So still requirement for 4 buses on those routes. Strange that they sent the 3 E400's away?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on December 02, 2022, 07:20:26 PMLooks like BHX3 is still operating. So still requirement for 4 buses on those routes. Strange that they sent the 3 E400's away?
Wonder if it's still operating until after christmas to help with demands of amazon.
33718 seems to spend most of its time on the 14's nowadays
the September service changes reduced the PVR of Leicester depot by around 7/8 buses which meant the 3 E400's were sent where needed rarther than being sat idle plus four of the saffron buses have gone to be converted into driver trainers which accounts for the reduced vehicle requirements
According to bus times a frequent fourteens E400 went to Birmingham Airport today. Is this to a new Amazon Warehouse and could this be a new Amazon Route potentially?
Or maybe we may get a First Route direct from Leicester to Birmingham (probably not! Haha).
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on November 17, 2022, 02:47:30 PMNoticed on bus times today, 38, 14/A & 22B have all moved to the "cancelled" section.
I'm guessing the 22B hasn't been a success For First and has been "re tendered" probably back to Centrebus? (First have had to let Centrebus customers use Centrebus tickets on this route).
I guess 14/A may be split as 14 has been a lot busier since Arriva cancelled? (14/15??)
Plus registration still says Sunningdale Road which isn't the case anymore.. so maybe that's just to update?
38/A - not sure?
Be interesting to see if anyone has any other ideas / thoughts..
Surprised they've not decided to run the 88E all day on Sunday's (30 mins).. notice a lot of people asking for more buses down there (since Arriva cancelled 87).
Changes to timetables from 3rd January 2023 now shown on the First Leicester website:
Service 14, 14A (City Centre - New Parks - Kirby Frith 14 / Beaumont Centre 14A)
A new Monday to Friday timetable will operate to improve the reliability of the service. There are no changes to the daytime frequency and buses will continue to operate every 6 minutes along Aikman Avenue/Fosse Road North.
Service 38, 38A (City Centre - Netherhall/Thurnby Lodge)
A new Monday to Friday timetable will operate to improve the reliability of the service. There are no changes to the daytime frequency and buses will continue to operate every 7/8 minutes along Uppingham Road/Humberstone Road.
Service 22B (City Centre - Birstall)
As a result from customer feedback, the last outbound journey from the Haymarket Bus Station towards Birstall will now depart at 1745 from Saturday 7th January 2023.
Mike T.
Works have started at Abbey Lane in preparation for the first of the 68 Wright GB Kite ELV's due from March 2023.
https://www.route-one.net/news/first-leicester-starts-work-on-electric-bus-infrastructure
anyone know what's up with 69381?
Quote from: Fin W on January 12, 2023, 10:09:54 PManyone know what's up with 69381?
it had a blown engine last September and went to Worcester to be fixed and came back for about a week then disappeared again.
two of the streetdecks has been off for quite a while too. 35172 since October and 35171 since 18th December
on the other hand Streetlite 63355 is back in use after an extended period away for repairs at cummins
Quote from: SSmith2009 on January 12, 2023, 10:58:19 PMit had a blown engine last September and went to Worcester to be fixed and came back for about a week then disappeared again.
two of the streetdecks has been off for quite a while too. 35172 since October and 35171 since 18th December
on the other hand Streetlite 63355 is back in use after an extended period away for repairs at cummins
35171 was last used on Amazon shuttles. These streetdeck engines don't seem to like the motorway's! Maybe that's where it is?
On 13 today was 35169 - this bus equally didn't sound to healthy and seemed to not have any power. A journey from city to Glenfield took a very long time. I'd say this has probably had it too.. I took the 1320 which is supposed to arrive in Glenfield (one stop) at 1341 - but it arrived about 1355! Sounded almost like it was changing gear too early.
Quote from: SSmith2009 on January 12, 2023, 10:58:19 PMtwo of the streetdecks have been off for quite a while too. 35172 since October and 35171 since 18th December
update: 35171 and 35172 have been parked up aside the depot with metal fencing on them for a fair few weeks
Quote from: SSmith2009 on January 23, 2023, 04:46:21 PMupdate: 35171 and 35172 have been parked up aside the depot with metal fencing on them for a fair few weeks
These two both have 22 branding don't they?
If the information posted on a Facebook group for Centrebus is correct.. (yes Facebook, so may not be).. First are passing 22 to Centrebus (as part of the Leicester buses).. and Centrebus are passing 54A to first.
From reading it seems the new First 54/54A could be fully electric single decker. Add to that the removal of 22, and it makes sense all the electric single deckers arriving.. with a much lower DD fleet required (leaving only 14 a full DD output, and 2/3 for 4, 1/2 for 13, and 2/3 for 74.. plus Amazon shuttles and 13W - although if 54 does change to single it's likely 13W would be as it's inter-worked)..
Off topic, but worth putting here: Centrebus plan to run the revised 22 with single deckers every 10mins. (With Birstall kept served every 30). Could this also see 22B passed to Centrebus on Sat? Centrebus apparently also taking "Hop" means that even with them passing on 54A there's no actual fleet reduction.
Anyway, all exciting times ahead maybe. Hmm..
Downgrading the 22 to single deckers would be a colossal wreck of a decision. I use it everyday and the buses I get are always full. Given the number of school students that use the route, just single deckers isn't going to be functional.
I know for a fact that most users of the 22 use First's service over Centrebus's and probably wouldn't be happy if this is true.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on January 23, 2023, 10:38:26 PMThese two both have 22 branding don't they?
If the information posted on a Facebook group for Centrebus is correct.. (yes Facebook, so may not be).. First are passing 22 to Centrebus (as part of the Leicester buses).. and Centrebus are passing 54A to first.
From reading it seems the new First 54/54A could be fully electric single decker. Add to that the removal of 22, and it makes sense all the electric single deckers arriving.. with a much lower DD fleet required (leaving only 14 a full DD output, and 2/3 for 4, 1/2 for 13, and 2/3 for 74.. plus Amazon shuttles and 13W - although if 54 does change to single it's likely 13W would be as it's inter-worked)..
Off topic, but worth putting here: Centrebus plan to run the revised 22 with single deckers every 10mins. (With Birstall kept served every 30). Could this also see 22B passed to Centrebus on Sat? Centrebus apparently also taking "Hop" means that even with them passing on 54A there's no actual fleet reduction.
Anyway, all exciting times ahead maybe. Hmm..
there could be a number of reasons why they've been parked up for so long engine troubles or just not needed...
I very highly doubt the 54 would be fully single decker operated as it gets quite busy at times.
69381 is back and has seen service over the last few days.
Former Leicester 32646 (46) is apparently due to be scrapped very soon. Got an engine misfire apparently. (Plus few other issues that it won't pass MOT)..
Shame to see it finally go. Would be great if one of the many enthusiasts/drivers got together to save it.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on February 19, 2023, 09:41:22 PMFormer Leicester 32646 (46) is apparently due to be scrapped very soon. Got an engine misfire apparently. (Plus few other issues that it won't pass MOT)..
Shame to see it finally go. Would be great if one of the many enthusiasts/drivers got together to save it.
its been withdrawn as of today
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on February 19, 2023, 09:41:22 PMFormer Leicester 32646 (46) is apparently due to be scrapped very soon. Got an engine misfire apparently. (Plus few other issues that it won't pass MOT)..
Shame to see it finally go. Would be great if one of the many enthusiasts/drivers got together to save it.
So basically you want other people to use their money to buy a bus that needs a £20,000 replacement engine along with lots of other work just because of a coat of paint?
Quote from: Tony on February 20, 2023, 08:50:18 PMSo basically you want other people to use their money to buy a bus that needs a £20,000 replacement engine along with lots of other work just because of a coat of paint?
I never said that. But as a lot of Leicester drivers and enthusiasts alike liked this bus.. it was only a suggestion.
Sorry for posting...
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on February 19, 2023, 09:41:22 PMFormer Leicester 32646 (46) is apparently due to be scrapped very soon. Got an engine misfire apparently. (Plus few other issues that it won't pass MOT)..
Shame to see it finally go. Would be great if one of the many enthusiasts/drivers got together to save it.
from a comment on the LTHT facebook page it may have been provisonally sold for preservation already 🤞🤞
Former First Leicester ALX400 32067 (KP51 VZR) has now been preserved.
Two StreetDeck Electroliners have been spotted doing test runs in Leicester recently. I imagine these are intended to replace the current StreetDecks in the coming weeks.
Highly doubt they'll be anything to do with first as the electric vehicles due are 68 x GB kite single deckers
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on February 24, 2023, 10:20:21 PMFormer First Leicester ALX400 32067 (KP51 VZR) has now been preserved.
Two StreetDeck Electroliners have been spotted doing test runs in Leicester recently. I imagine these are intended to replace the current StreetDecks in the coming weeks.
Since when were we getting electric deckers?
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on February 24, 2023, 10:20:21 PMFormer First Leicester ALX400 32067 (KP51 VZR) has now been preserved.
Two StreetDeck Electroliners have been spotted doing test runs in Leicester recently. I imagine these are intended to replace the current StreetDecks in the coming weeks.
Are you on about the test from last year? As there haven't been any in First recently?
There's supposed to be 68 kite electric singles.. first of which will arrive soon and the rest later in the year.
Quote from: SSmith2009 on February 25, 2023, 10:49:10 AMHighly doubt they'll be anything to do with first as the electric vehicles due are 68 x GB kite single deckers
I was wrong. They are Eclipse 3s. Either I wasn't reading properly or my source had put StreetDecks down by accident. Corrected now.
In
Quote from: leicesterbusadventurer on February 26, 2023, 05:51:21 PMI was wrong. They are Eclipse 3s. Either I wasn't reading properly or my source had put StreetDecks down by accident. Corrected now.
Did you see these yourself? Are they in the first yard? Or are they a different operator?
At least 2 GBKite buses for Leicester have been spotted on road test in Ireland over the past week.
Should be here soon hopefully.
Interestingly 1 is spotted in green (the same as Leicester Centrebus Greenlines).. Have they already decided to scrap Leicester buses route branding, and chosen a simple green for all (trying to be like London just green instead of red?).
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 06, 2023, 06:53:32 PMAt least 2 GBKite buses for Leicester have been spotted on road test in Ireland over the past week.
Should be here soon hopefully.
Interestingly 1 is spotted in green (the same as Leicester Centrebus Greenlines).. Have they already decided to scrap Leicester buses route branding, and chosen a simple green for all (trying to be like London just green instead of red?).
Could just be one of a few generic spares with mainlines branding similar to how the orbital buses have 4 branded for the service with 2 in greenlines livery?
Basically just having less buses in full route branding to give flexibility with avaliable buses
Quote from: SSmith2009 on March 06, 2023, 07:44:31 PMCould just be one of a few generic spares with mainlines branding similar to how the orbital buses have 4 branded for the service with 2 in greenlines livery?
Basically just having less buses in full route branding to give flexibility with avaliable buses
wouldn't the spare ones be painted in the current First Leicester livery?
Well according to this the 22 won't be operated by First come the 16th April: https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/608152/
A shame, as First has ran the route very well. We will have a much worse service with Centrebus running it with (allegedly) single deckers.
In other news the 38 and 38A will be starting from Haymarket Bus Station as of the same date, and will run at an every 5 minute frequency combined with Arriva's new service 37.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on March 08, 2023, 07:04:13 PMWell according to this the 22 won't be operated by First come the 16th April: https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/608152/
A shame, as First has ran the route very well. We will have a much worse service with Centrebus running it with (allegedly) single deckers.
In other news the 38 and 38A will be starting from Haymarket Bus Station as of the same date, and will run at an every 5 minute frequency combined with Arriva's new service 37.
Centrebus have de-registered the 54A too
Lots of changes hopefully for the better
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on March 08, 2023, 07:04:13 PMWell according to this the 22 won't be operated by First come the 16th April: https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/608152/
A shame, as First has ran the route very well. We will have a much worse service with Centrebus running it with (allegedly) single deckers.
In other news the 38 and 38A will be starting from Haymarket Bus Station as of the same date, and will run at an every 5 minute frequency combined with Arriva's new service 37.
Personally I think you'll be better off with Centrebus. I posted about this before.. but from a source in Centrebus it's going to be single deckers, every 10mins.. (plus keeping the 22A Birstall side every 30mins). I think actually though, all Leicester buses will be singles (except Arriva).
As it's a smaller company that will want the service to work as they are loosing their 54, I think it will be great.
38/38A from Haymarket will also be great.
Plus first 54 only will simplify the routes too.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 08, 2023, 07:35:07 PMPersonally I think you'll be better off with Centrebus. I posted about this before.. but from a source in Centrebus it's going to be single deckers, every 10mins.. (plus keeping the 22A Birstall side every 30mins). I think actually though, all Leicester buses will be singles (except Arriva).
As it's a smaller company that will want the service to work as they are loosing their 54, I think it will be great.
38/38A from Haymarket will also be great.
Plus first 54 only will simplify the routes too.
Although first haven't logged a change for the 54? Maybe waiting for Abbey Park Road to open?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 08, 2023, 09:56:50 PMAlthough first haven't logged a change for the 54? Maybe waiting for Abbey Park Road to open?
AFAIK Abbey Park Road should re-open by the end of this month
Might just be delayed in showing up although on bustimes.org (not the most reliable) a service 15 has appeared (City Centre to Goodwood) from 16th april
A few other alterations to First services are showing on bustimes too 🙄🙄
Quote from: SSmith2009 on March 09, 2023, 06:51:12 AMAFAIK Abbey Park Road should re-open by the end of this month
Might just be delayed in showing up although on bustimes.org (not the most reliable) a service 15 has appeared (City Centre to Goodwood) from 16th april
A few other alterations to First services are showing on bustimes too 🙄🙄
Hello
Yes noticed this this morning.. 15 looks to be a split from the 54.. just Goodwood side and 54 on bustimes had also been updated once again showing Abbey Park Road (I guess this will run city to Beaumont Leys)?
Noticed 13, 14, 14A & 18 plus the 74 now SMBS.
Also 13 & 74 could potentially be interworking (maybe at weekend as both same frequency - instead of the 16?) as both have the same 2 stops listed?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 09, 2023, 07:26:43 AMHello
Yes noticed this this morning.. 15 looks to be a split from the 54.. just Goodwood side and 54 on bustimes had also been updated once again showing Abbey Park Road (I guess this will run city to Beaumont Leys)?
Noticed 13, 14, 14A & 18 plus the 74 now SMBS.
Also 13 & 74 could potentially be interworking (maybe at weekend as both same frequency - instead of the 16?) as both have the same 2 stops listed?
First have yet to announce the changes but fingers crossed the reliability of the 14's improves as they can just run from the stand directly onto Burleys Way (when they go that way)
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on March 08, 2023, 07:04:13 PMWell according to this the 22 won't be operated by First come the 16th April: https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/608152/
A shame, as First has ran the route very well. We will have a much worse service with Centrebus running it with (allegedly) single deckers.
In other news the 38 and 38A will be starting from Haymarket Bus Station as of the same date, and will run at an every 5 minute frequency combined with Arriva's new service 37.
You are joking, aren't you? Have you not witnessed the daily, poor service delivery in vehicles running together, vehicles regularly running not in service and a general inability to deliver the timetable?
The one good thing about First, until the recent change of MD, was that they provided the best presented vehicles, both in internally and externally, by a long way. That's slipped since the departure of NE and vehicle allocation has also gone awry too. Shame.
Quote from: SSmith2009 on March 09, 2023, 05:44:10 PMFirst have yet to announce the changes but fingers crossed the reliability of the 14's improves as they can just run from the stand directly onto Burleys Way (when they go that way)
Yes, which is great operationally. And yes, running on time to provide reliability is a huge part of growing consumer confidence in a service, which helps to increase patronage. However, it is not the only factor. Where do passengers really want to go? Do they want to be turfed off at St. Margaret's or would they like to go further? Now they have the option to alight at either but it sounds like in the future they will not have that choice. If I was 85, suffering from arthritis and wanted to get some shopping at Wilko's, I would probably be a bit miffed at the trek from St. Margaret's to get there. It's a bit like the dross written on Arriva's information about their April 16th service change, where folk from Sturdee Road, in Eyres Monsell, can walk to Lutterworth Road for routes 84 & 85.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on March 11, 2023, 02:19:43 PMYou are joking, aren't you? Have you not witnessed the daily, poor service delivery in vehicles running together, vehicles regularly running not in service and a general inability to deliver the timetable?
The one good thing about First, until the recent change of MD, was that they provided the best presented vehicles, both in internally and externally, by a long way. That's slipped since the departure of NE and vehicle allocation has also gone awry too. Shame.
I've used the route every single day for the past two years, so no, I'm not joking.
It isn't daily in the slightest, and they deliver the timetables a whole lot better than Centrebus manage to do. I see Centrebus skipping journeys far more regularly than First does. In the two years I've used the 22 everyday, First have only cancelled my regular bus into town once.
Fair enough, the route quite often runs late (especially in the afternoon/evening peak), but from my experience, that's down to congestion on roads such as Spencefield Lane, through Evington village and, most prominently, Evington Road. If the council actually enforced parking restrictions on all of these roads better, I think you'll find the route operating significantly better.
The buses are presented fine, there is nothing wrong with them, and nothing has changed presentation wise since NE left. Alright, yes, the allocations have messed up a bit, but most people really don't care what their bus looks like as long as it turns up.
We will see what happens when Centrebus take the route over, I'm not expecting any improvements though.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on March 11, 2023, 02:19:43 PMYou are joking, aren't you? Have you not witnessed the daily, poor service delivery in vehicles running together, vehicles regularly running not in service and a general inability to deliver the timetable?
The one good thing about First, until the recent change of MD, was that they provided the best presented vehicles, both in internally and externally, by a long way. That's slipped since the departure of NE and vehicle allocation has also gone awry too. Shame.
I use this route everyday and find first bus run it very well to a high standard with nice clean double deckers . On any high frequency route buses can sometimes run together due to delays etc. As I use this service daily I feel first deliver to their timetable really well. I've not experienced buses running not in service except for when buses are full at school times and cannot take any more passengers. I do feel the service isn't as good as it used to be since First changed the timetable to coordinate with centrebus duplicate service 22, which means waiting 20 mins for a firstbus 22 service at certain times when centrebus operate their duplicate 22 service. Allocation is always good with 4 branded streetdecks running , one has recently been off the road and if others are off the road it is always operated with unbranded streetdecks. Sometimes streetlites do operate but this is due to vehicle availability as the depot doesn't keep a lot of spares anymore and firstbus always make sure the service operates.
The First GBKite electric single decker (63501) has arrived at Abbey Lane.
It's Green.
35171 has returned to service after a few months off the road
Long term off roaders are now just 35172 off since October 2022 and 33696 which sustained damage from an accident on Charnor Road at the end of January.
2nd day in a row that a 22 branded double decker has been on the peak 13 morning running today.
A sign of the future perhaps? Maybe they'll be rebranded?
On another note.. timetables are now on the website under forthcoming.. interesting there's not that much changed with the times.. just bus stop movements. Plus of course the split up 54/15 and removal of 22.
I guess they'll explain changes in a few days.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 15, 2023, 06:45:32 AM2nd day in a row that a 22 branded double decker has been on the peak 13 morning running today.
A sign of the future perhaps? Maybe they'll be rebranded?
On another note.. timetables are now on the website under forthcoming.. interesting there's not that much changed with the times.. just bus stop movements. Plus of course the split up 54/15 and removal of 22.
I guess they'll explain changes in a few days.
None of the Streetdecks on the 22 today are branded for the 22, quite oddly, with 35173 on the 13 and 35174 on the 14.
Would be surprised if both of them have already been debranded overnight to be honest.
Changes are now listed on the website: Service changes from 16th April (https://www.firstbus.co.uk/leicester/news-and-service-updates/updates/service-changes-16-april-2023)
Interestingly services 14/14a will share the same stand at St Margaret's (SG) 🙄
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on March 15, 2023, 06:59:07 AMNone of the Streetdecks on the 22 today are branded for the 22, quite oddly, with 35173 on the 13 and 35174 on the 14.
Would be surprised if both of them have already been debranded overnight to be honest.
Both are definitely still branded 22 as I've seen them on both days on 13 hence the post!
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 15, 2023, 11:26:34 AMBoth are definitely still branded 22 as I've seen them on both days on 13 hence the post!
35174 and 35175 are both now branded for ToTo with all 22 branding gone
35173 also has lost it's branding for the 22, and replaced with ToTo branding instead.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on March 15, 2023, 05:04:23 PM35173 also has lost it's branding for the 22, and replaced with ToTo branding instead.
Yes, looks like it happened this morning after it's run on the 13 during peak like I mentioned above. It was definitely still 22 when I saw it at 6.12 passing by One Stop on Park drive/Elm Tree Avenue. 35174 was also still in 22 branding the day before too!
Heard in the news today on the radio.. 18 Electroliner Streetdecks have been ordered to replace the Streetdecks and make Abbey Lane 100% electric from mid 2024!
Interesting article.. shows Leicester's new colour scheme, looks pretty smart!
Plus 18 more buses (Streetdecks electroliners) to the already ordered 68gbkites (some of which are due soon.. 1 already here and branded)
Have to say the green looks smart. Hope it doesn't wear off or have windows replaced etc like on the HH Centrebus which already look bit scruffy.
Worth a read: https://www.route-one.net/bus/roads-minister-differing-approaches-needed-on-infrastructure/
Having seen the pictures of First 63501 in its green livery, I have a question:
Does anyone know whether this is a 'First' livery (i.e., First's electric vehicles in other parts of the country will also carry these colours) *OR* is it a livery specified for Leicester Buses (in which case, the Arriva electrics due later this year will be in much the same livery)?
Quote from: xmj-signal on March 21, 2023, 08:31:53 PMHaving seen the pictures of First 63501 in its green livery, I have a question:
Does anyone know whether this is a 'First' livery (i.e., First's electric vehicles in other parts of the country will also carry these colours) *OR* is it a livery specified for Leicester Buses (in which case, the Arriva electrics due later this year will be in much the same livery)?
I'd hazard a guess that it was a joint effort with some input from the council and some from first.
I have to say it does look quite smart though and will certainly stand out.
Quote from: xmj-signal on March 21, 2023, 08:31:53 PMHaving seen the pictures of First 63501 in its green livery, I have a question:
Does anyone know whether this is a 'First' livery (i.e., First's electric vehicles in other parts of the country will also carry these colours) *OR* is it a livery specified for Leicester Buses (in which case, the Arriva electrics due later this year will be in much the same livery)?
Just Leicester as far as I know, the council supposedly requested all EVs to be green.
If your up early enough.. Electric bus has been "on test" at 5am in morning, running from depot along abbey lane & Loughborough road and back.. I guess driver familiarisation without so much traffic?
You can see it's tracked on bus times but as 66841
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 25, 2023, 12:31:32 AMIf your up early enough.. Electric bus has been "on test" at 5am in morning, running from depot along abbey lane & Loughborough road and back.. I guess driver familiarisation without so much traffic?
You can see it's tracked on bus times but as 66841
A launch event at Abbey Lane was held this week
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 25, 2023, 12:31:32 AMIf your up early enough.. Electric bus has been "on test" at 5am in morning, running from depot along abbey lane & Loughborough road and back.. I guess driver familiarisation without so much traffic?
You can see it's tracked on bus times but as 66841
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/flei-66841?date=2023-03-27#journeys/405127920
63501 (still tracking as 66841) shows as having been at East Midlands Airport today
Quote from: Fin W on March 27, 2023, 05:02:23 PMhttps://bustimes.org/vehicles/flei-66841?date=2023-03-27#journeys/405127920
63501 (still tracking as 66841) shows as having been at East Midlands Airport today
First have picked up a new contract with EMA.. not sure if it's like Amazon (as they've not registered it like the Amazon services, both of which are now registered under the BHX5!)
2 E300's are due to arrive/or have already arrived.
Not sure if they would have put the ticket machine back in 66841 for that what I assume was a trial of the route? Or if indeed they ran the electric out to see how it went?
I do remember before BHX3 launched.. the 66841 / driver trainer was seen in Daventry testing the route.. my guess is this could have been the same?
surprised electric hasn't got its own ticket machine yet (hence not on bus times)? Maybe they are awaiting on some?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 27, 2023, 11:25:14 PMNot sure if they would have put the ticket machine back in 66841 for that what I assume was a trial of the route? Or if indeed they ran the electric out to see how it went?
I do remember before BHX3 launched.. the 66841 / driver trainer was seen in Daventry testing the route.. my guess is this could have been the same?
surprised electric hasn't got its own ticket machine yet (hence not on bus times)? Maybe they are awaiting on some?
I'm not sure about what has happened since, but I happened to be on Abbey Lane early last Wednesday (22nd), and the bus tracking as 66841 was....66841
Quote from: andy1571 on March 28, 2023, 11:45:14 AMI'm not sure about what has happened since, but I happened to be on Abbey Lane early last Wednesday (22nd), and the bus tracking as 66841 was....66841
Thanks Andy..
Indeed this is correct, as I saw it out too.. not sure why it's just doing that back and forth so early? (Drivers trained early in the morning)?
I did see a green bus the other week and pressumed it was the electric, but must of seen something else.. my apologies
Some E200's have arrived from First BOS. These are temporary, while further E200's come to Leicester for the airport contract.. it looks like it's the old Arriva shuttles.
The buses from BOS are meant to be E300's
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 31, 2023, 03:15:27 PMSome E200's have arrived from First BOS. These are temporary, while further E200's come to Leicester for the airport contract.. it looks like it's the old Arriva shuttles.
Yes it's the same contract for EMA
Specified vehicles (luggage racks etc) are due soon for it
Also noted: April 16th Service changes.
Further adjustment to 16 has been announced.. it's being extended to serve the area currently served by Centrebus 54A in Goodwood. It'll run the extended route only Mon-Sat.. keeping current route on Sunday.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on April 01, 2023, 05:49:46 PMAlso noted: April 16th Service changes.
Further adjustment to 16 has been announced.. it's being extended to serve the area currently served by Centrebus 54A in Goodwood. It'll run the extended route only Mon-Sat.. keeping current route on Sunday.
While I don't know the ins-and-outs of the decision to extend the 16, it does seem a bit of a 'sledgehammer to crack a nut' solution. What a convoluted route, though probably necessary if you're going to add a new terminal loop onto a route which already has a terminal loop! The 16 does have some slack in the timetables though.
Surely the easiest way to have covered the Gamel Road loop would have been for two journeys an hour on new route 15 (the Goodwood side of current route 54) to run as a 15A and follow the current Centrebus route (i.e. out along Ambassador Road rather than to the top of Wicklow Drive) then round the Gamel Road loop and back to inward on Ambassador Road. This would have required no more running time and would have been simpler to understand as it would effectively just have been a renumbering of the existing 54A. Probably wouldn't have needed much support funding either.
Quote from: xmj-signal on April 01, 2023, 08:49:51 PMWhile I don't know the ins-and-outs of the decision to extend the 16, it does seem a bit of a 'sledgehammer to crack a nut' solution. What a convoluted route, though probably necessary if you're going to add a new terminal loop onto a route which already has a terminal loop! The 16 does have some slack in the timetables though.
Surely the easiest way to have covered the Gamel Road loop would have been for two journeys an hour on new route 15 (the Goodwood side of current route 54) to run as a 15A and follow the current Centrebus route (i.e. out along Ambassador Road rather than to the top of Wicklow Drive) then round the Gamel Road loop and back to inward on Ambassador Road. This would have required no more running time and would have been simpler to understand as it would effectively just have been a renumbering of the existing 54A. Probably wouldn't have needed much support funding either.
I thought this too, a 15A probably would have been more simpler. But then I guess it'll just be a trial and it may change in end Aug/September (which is the next allowed change dates according to bus plan).
I said this on Facebook, and former MD liked it.. they've split the service 54 so both sides can be reviewed separately. I'm sure then come September they can review the services and adjust if necessary.
I also read that Centrebus plan is to run singles on 22/22A but again it's likely they'll keep reviewing. As it's close proximity to Broadway - they may pull a DD over from the uni route for a peak rush for example?
Although when I did go on 22 this week it didn't look that well used.. compared to 13 which was packed at 1.20 in the afternoon for example.
Quote from: xmj-signal on April 01, 2023, 08:49:51 PMWhile I don't know the ins-and-outs of the decision to extend the 16, it does seem a bit of a 'sledgehammer to crack a nut' solution. What a convoluted route, though probably necessary if you're going to add a new terminal loop onto a route which already has a terminal loop! The 16 does have some slack in the timetables though.
Surely the easiest way to have covered the Gamel Road loop would have been for two journeys an hour on new route 15 (the Goodwood side of current route 54) to run as a 15A and follow the current Centrebus route (i.e. out along Ambassador Road rather than to the top of Wicklow Drive) then round the Gamel Road loop and back to inward on Ambassador Road. This would have required no more running time and would have been simpler to understand as it would effectively just have been a renumbering of the existing 54A. Probably wouldn't have needed much support funding either.
Ideally I'd have diverted the outbound 16 right onto Broad Avenue through the General Hospital (same as HH and 40 do) then left onto Coleman Road, right onto Green Lane Road/Wicklow Drive to do the Gamel road loop then back into General Hospital the same way via Coleman Road.
Would save doing a double loop of Coleman Road and no stops would be missed either too.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on April 01, 2023, 11:14:45 PMI thought this too, a 15A probably would have been more simpler. But then I guess it'll just be a trial and it may change in end Aug/September (which is the next allowed change dates according to bus plan).
I also read that Centrebus plan is to run singles on 22/22A but again it's likely they'll keep reviewing. As it's close proximity to Broadway - they may pull a DD over from the uni route for a peak rush for example?
Although when I did go on 22 this week it didn't look that well used.. compared to 13 which was packed at 1.20 in the afternoon for example.
The new times for route 16 are in bustimes.org (I chose 18th April as an example) and it shows that it will require an extra vehicle to extend the 16 (1 hour 25 mins City Centre to City Centre, an extra half-an-hour to get round the extension):
https://bustimes.org/services/16-city-centre-general-hospital?date=2023-04-18
Regarding the 22, I have used the route quite regularly and it's fair to say that the double deckers are probably not needed outside of peak hours/school times. If Centrebus can make sure they use full-size single deckers, it should be okay during the day but I fully expect to find Optare Solos getting on the route.
However, I have always tried to avoid school times. On one occasion when I had no choice but to travel to Evington at around 0800, the double decker was full and leaving some students at stops further along the route. When I say 'full', they were standing on the top deck and right up the stairs and I assume the lower deck was chock-a-block as well. Unless something has changed drastically over the last few months, I think Centrebus will have no choice but to either use double deckers or double-up on vehicles for those journeys.
As a daily user of the 22, the route is still extremely busy during the morning and afternoon/evening peak. It'll definitely cope during the day, but it 100% needs double deckers, especially on the buses at around 7/8 in the morning and all of them after 3pm.
Agree with the comments made about the 16, ridiculous route extension and would've made far more sense to change the 15 instead. The council are making too many changes at once with these upcoming changes, and are not thinking about whether or not these "improvements" are actually improvements.
The Wrightbus Electroliner demonstrator pulled into the Abbey Lane depot at around 16:15 this afternoon, displaying 36 to Leeds on the front rather oddly.
There is also a Sheffield Streetdeck in the depot, but unsure of which.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on April 03, 2023, 06:31:47 PMThe Wrightbus Electroliner demonstrator pulled into the Abbey Lane depot at around 16:15 this afternoon, displaying 36 to Leeds on the front rather oddly.
There is also a Sheffield Streetdeck in the depot, but unsure of which.
LY71 GJE back?
33696 has re-entered service after repairs following an rta in January
69376 has been spotted on training duties in Leicester, I'm not sure if it is a loan or a transfer from Olive Grove
An interesting change (or rather lack of) in the up-coming revisions next Sunday: while the list of changes on the First website shows that 54 Beaumont Leys will revert to running along Abbey Park Road, there is no similar information for the 25/26 routes. So, I asked the question via the website contact form and have received the following reply:
Good Afternoon,
...
I can confirm there are no current plans for the 25/26 to return along Abbey Park Road. Only the 53 (they mean 54) will use Abbey Park Road
...
I was also told the same last week at the Travel Shop, after the person behind the counter phoned someone to ask. So apparently the 25 inward and 26 outward are going to continue operating via Ravensbridge Drive, which seems a little strange.
Quote from: xmj-signal on April 11, 2023, 12:35:52 AMAn interesting change (or rather lack of) in the up-coming revisions next Sunday: while the list of changes on the First website shows that 54 Beaumont Leys will revert to running along Abbey Park Road, there is no similar information for the 25/26 routes. So, I asked the question via the website contact form and have received the following reply:
Good Afternoon,
...
I can confirm there are no current plans for the 25/26 to return along Abbey Park Road. Only the 53 (they mean 54) will use Abbey Park Road
...
I was also told the same last week at the Travel Shop, after the person behind the counter phoned someone to ask. So apparently the 25 inward and 26 outward are going to continue operating via Ravensbridge Drive, which seems a little strange.
Maybe its been kept that way to avoid Abbey Park Road being over bussed and to keep it simple.
2 more GB kites have arrived
streetlites 63109 and 63110 have reportedly turned up at Abbey Lane.
I'd hazard a guess they'll be for the service revisions on Sunday which requires extra buses
63109/10 were parked up at Weymouth with ticket machines removed the other day
Quote from: xmj-signal on April 11, 2023, 12:35:52 AMAn interesting change (or rather lack of) in the up-coming revisions next Sunday: while the list of changes on the First website shows that 54 Beaumont Leys will revert to running along Abbey Park Road, there is no similar information for the 25/26 routes. So, I asked the question via the website contact form and have received the following reply:
Good Afternoon,
...
I can confirm there are no current plans for the 25/26 to return along Abbey Park Road. Only the 53 (they mean 54) will use Abbey Park Road
...
I was also told the same last week at the Travel Shop, after the person behind the counter phoned someone to ask. So apparently the 25 inward and 26 outward are going to continue operating via Ravensbridge Drive, which seems a little strange.
I asked the same on Twitter but didn't really get a response other than "I'll ask the depot"!
But I did notice.. blackbird Road now has the new bus stops & flags at Devonshire Road both directions. Which indeed would mean the 25/26 will stay on that route.
I'd say they've likely done it so that there's a service on Blackbird Road and a service on Abbey Park Road rather than both services running on Abbey Park Road and none in the area of blackbird Road?
I believe it will also be the only service from First to now use the Abbey Street bus stop. As all other services that use that stop will leave from St.Margaret's. (And 54 back to leaving via Belgrave gate)
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on April 12, 2023, 10:33:08 PM....
I'd say they've likely done it so that there's a service on Blackbird Road and a service on Abbey Park Road rather than both services running on Abbey Park Road and none in the area of blackbird Road?
....
That's possible, though why it's needed now when it apparently wasn't before is puzzling.
I wonder what effect the diversion away from Groby Road junction of all traffic from Woodgate for Blackbird Road (now being routed along Abbey Gate and Ravensbridge Drive) will have on the queues at the Blackbird Road/Ravensbridge Drive traffic lights.
Updated route map now available:
https://www.firstbus.co.uk/sites/default/files/public/maps/Leicester%20network%20map%20apr23.pdf
Interestingly.. they've added the bus stop stands for city & Beaumont centre to this. Before they had a separate guide so I guess they will be getting rid of the guide?
Also noted: 54 is now blue! 15 is now bright green. 16 is a shade darker in green than before. Also noted Ravensbridge drive & blackbird Road for 25/26 (before it still showed abbey park road). They've also recoloured that from Mauve to indigo..
I know they don't use the colours anymore as such but it's nice to identify the routes in such a way. (Timetables at stops seem to be pink & blue regardless of route).
Eventually they could be brought back as it's still one of the aims of the Leicester bus plan.
1 error.. see if you spot it! (Clue bus stop guide for city).
Quote from: SSmith2009 on April 02, 2023, 12:42:26 AMIdeally I'd have diverted the outbound 16 right onto Broad Avenue through the General Hospital (same as HH and 40 do) then left onto Coleman Road, right onto Green Lane Road/Wicklow Drive to do the Gamel road loop then back into General Hospital the same way via Coleman Road.
Would save doing a double loop of Coleman Road and no stops would be missed either too.
The new Network Map is now available on the First Leicester website:
https://www.firstbus.co.uk/leicester/routes-and-maps/network-maps
This shows that the outward route 16 WILL turn right at the end of St Saviours Road, climb up Broad Avenue and run through the General Hospital grounds towards Coleman Road. While this does seem logical, it does also mean that passengers FROM the City to the section of Coleman Road between Broad Avenue and General Hospital Drive will either have a bit of a walk or will need to travel right round the new Goodwood loop to get off on the inward journey.
Quote from: xmj-signal on April 15, 2023, 01:24:53 AMThe new Network Map is now available on the First Leicester website:
https://www.firstbus.co.uk/leicester/routes-and-maps/network-maps
This shows that the outward route 16 WILL turn right at the end of St Saviours Road, climb up Broad Avenue and run through the General Hospital grounds towards Coleman Road. While this does seem logical, it does also mean that passengers FROM the City to the section of Coleman Road between Broad Avenue and General Hospital Drive will either have a bit of a walk or will need to travel right round the new Goodwood loop to get off on the inward journey.
Actually, having done a bit more investigating, I think the map is probably incorrect.
I've just been looking at the journey planner for an extended route 16 journey on Tuesday next week and, when showing 'all stops', it still shows calls at 'Crown Hills, adj Thorpewell', 'Crown Hills, adj Devon Way' and 'Crown Hills, opp Ambulance Station' which would suggest that the outward buses will still turn left down Broad Avenue then right onto Coleman Road - they presumably will then swing round on the dual-carriageway section of General Hospital Drive by the current terminal stop to head back towards Coleman Road and Goodwood.
It's not like First to get things like this wrong, I must say, but I think they must have in this case.
Quote from: xmj-signal on April 15, 2023, 01:44:55 AMActually, having done a bit more investigating, I think the map is probably incorrect.
I've just been looking at the journey planner for an extended route 16 journey on Tuesday next week and, when showing 'all stops', it still shows calls at 'Crown Hills, adj Thorpewell', 'Crown Hills, adj Devon Way' and 'Crown Hills, opp Ambulance Station' which would suggest that the outward buses will still turn left down Broad Avenue then right onto Coleman Road - they presumably will then swing round on the dual-carriageway section of General Hospital Drive by the current terminal stop to head back towards Coleman Road and Goodwood.
It's not like First to get things like this wrong, I must say, but I think they must have in this case.
Well spotted.. I didn't notice that. Which means there's 2 mistakes.
My original post for the map, the error I mentioned was with the stops - 54 will not use BE but should say BF!
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on April 15, 2023, 12:04:21 AMUpdated route map now available:
https://www.firstbus.co.uk/sites/default/files/public/maps/Leicester%20network%20map%20apr23.pdf
Interestingly.. they've added the bus stop stands for city & Beaumont centre to this. Before they had a separate guide so I guess they will be getting rid of the guide?
Also noted: 54 is now blue! 15 is now bright green. 16 is a shade darker in green than before. Also noted Ravensbridge drive & blackbird Road for 25/26 (before it still showed abbey park road). They've also recoloured that from Mauve to indigo..
I know they don't use the colours anymore as such but it's nice to identify the routes in such a way. (Timetables at stops seem to be pink & blue regardless of route).
Eventually they could be brought back as it's still one of the aims of the Leicester bus plan.
1 error.. see if you spot it! (Clue bus stop guide for city).
Do we know if they are still planning to have different coloured liveries/branding on the buses for each route?
Quote from: Fin W on April 15, 2023, 10:20:08 AMDo we know if they are still planning to have different coloured liveries/branding on the buses for each route?
It's still one of the "objectives" according to their Leicester buses website. Not sure though if it could literally mean one blue stripe or brown stripe etc on a green bus?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on April 15, 2023, 09:08:46 PMIt's still one of the "objectives" according to their Leicester buses website. Not sure though if it could literally mean one blue stripe or brown stripe etc on a green bus?
Any amount of colour is better than having them all green.
33 double deckers we're in use during the main peak today.. 35 if you include the 2 on BHX services and 36 if you include a short running on 14 (for one E400).
If they've only ordered 18 electric double deckers.. it's not clear to me how this will be enough?
I guess could the orders be flexible? And more DD's arrive instead? Or is it certain 68 must be single deckers?
15 & 54 both ran fully double decker.. 14/A had 1 single the rest double deckers. 13 ran fully double decker except the extra peak single decker in AM.. plus 4 ran with the usual mixed board.
Interestingly no DD's on 16 or 74.. 1 DD did run on 38A for 1 early evening journey.
Perhaps 15 & 54 may become mixed boards once they work out where to best place them..
13W (DD) still becomes the first 54 from Beaumont centre.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on April 17, 2023, 11:08:47 PM33 double deckers we're in use during the main peak today.. 35 if you include the 2 on BHX services and 36 if you include a short running on 14 (for one E400).
If they've only ordered 18 electric double deckers.. it's not clear to me how this will be enough?
I guess could the orders be flexible? And more DD's arrive instead? Or is it certain 68 must be single deckers?
Could be that one of the higher frequency routes may be converted to single decker operation?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on April 15, 2023, 08:47:43 AMWell spotted.. I didn't notice that. Which means there's 2 mistakes.
My original post for the map, the error I mentioned was with the stops - 54 will not use BE but should say BF!
A revised version of the Network Map is now on the First Leicester website.
The route of the 16 around the General Hospital has been corrected (and is now almost incomprehensible, though how it could be any clearer with such a complex operation is hard to imagine).
You'll also be pleased to know that route 54 will now be using stop BF according to the diagram.
Quote from: xmj-signal on April 11, 2023, 12:35:52 AMAn interesting change (or rather lack of) in the up-coming revisions next Sunday: while the list of changes on the First website shows that 54 Beaumont Leys will revert to running along Abbey Park Road, there is no similar information for the 25/26 routes. So, I asked the question via the website contact form and have received the following reply:
Good Afternoon,
...
I can confirm there are no current plans for the 25/26 to return along Abbey Park Road. Only the 53 (they mean 54) will use Abbey Park Road
...
I was also told the same last week at the Travel Shop, after the person behind the counter phoned someone to ask. So apparently the 25 inward and 26 outward are going to continue operating via Ravensbridge Drive, which seems a little strange.
I know I shouldn't laugh but I've just been looking at the 'boasts' on the Leicester Buses website and they are congratulating themselves on the installation of bus lanes on Abbey Park Road which will (and I quote):
"help improve reliability and bus journey times on Firstbus 54 and
25/26, in advance of new electric buses being introduced on them this year."
What is the seating capacity of the new GB Kites?
40 seats (33 fixed seats and 7 tip up seats )
Wright's website says up to 88!
Quote from: Fin W on April 26, 2023, 11:00:07 PMWright's website says up to 88!
Does that include standing?
Quote from: Fin W on April 26, 2023, 11:00:07 PMWright's website says up to 88!
The Streetdeck including standing has 88! (74 seats).
I'd say max 60 for the single. These are full size length unlike the Streetlites.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on April 27, 2023, 05:41:20 PMThe Streetdeck including standing has 88! (74 seats).
I'd say max 60 for the single. These are full size length unlike the Streetlites.
Wright bodied Volvo B7RLEs have a capacity of 100, so 88 seems reasonable for a Kite
From photos I've seen they have 40 seats with 7 of them tip up seats
Quote from: SSmith2009 on April 27, 2023, 06:33:40 PMFrom photos I've seen they have 40 seats with 7 of them tip up seats
This is correct, the video posted a few pages back of the launch confirms this.
Quote from: Tony on April 27, 2023, 05:48:33 PMWright bodied Volvo B7RLEs have a capacity of 100, so 88 seems reasonable for a Kite
Wow, that seems like a lot.
no wonder they are swapping to single deckers.
although I'm not sure general public will enjoy that many standing..
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on April 27, 2023, 10:40:38 PMWow, that seems like a lot.
no wonder they are swapping to single deckers.
although I'm not sure general public will enjoy that many standing..
I doubt you could physically get that many people squashed in. The official capacity usually has more to do with the maximum permitted weight than the amount of space available.
Does anyone know what 35189 and several other streetdecks are doing? https://bustimes.org/vehicles/flei-35189?date=2023-04-30#journeys/420421355
Quote from: Fin W on April 30, 2023, 12:01:49 PMDoes anyone know what 35189 is up to? https://bustimes.org/vehicles/flei-35189?date=2023-04-30#journeys/420421355
There's a Sikh procession going on in that area: https://news.leicester.gov.uk/news-articles/2023/april/traffic-disruption-likely-due-to-religious-procession/
Can't find any other info about it.
First have done this for a fair few years, for, if I am not mistaken, those that can't walk properly so they can still be a part of the procession, but not have to walk it.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on April 30, 2023, 02:13:22 PMFirst have done this for a fair few years, for, if I am not mistaken, those that can't walk properly so they can still be a part of the procession, but not have to walk it.
Correct.. it takes part in the parade initially (for those who can't walk or struggle) before running back and forth as a shuttle for the Sikhs to get between the temples.
It occurs usually once a year.. 35181 tracked full day as "Dead" but you can see possession route and shuttles.
It wasn't just StreetDecks used this year, Kite 63503 - BK23 HCV also took part in proceedings.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on May 01, 2023, 01:30:24 PMIt wasn't just StreetDecks used this year, Kite 63503 - BK23 HCV also took part in proceedings.
Excellent 👍
Do we know if they'll be bringing it into full service soon?
Quote from: 47609FireFly on May 01, 2023, 01:30:24 PMIt wasn't just StreetDecks used this year, Kite 63503 - BK23 HCV also took part in proceedings.
Can't be long until they begin to enter service in that case
67705 was seen earlier heading towards Leicester on the A50.. (it's also tracked on bus times).
I believe (yes believe but could be wrong).. this could potentially be its last trip here before moving on as the remaining airport vehicles are now in service or arriving soon.
Another note if you didn't know:
The airport vehicles appear to be "parked up" at an airport depot rather than coming back and forth to Leicester each day.
I heard elsewhere that they are stored at EMA, That would explain why they don't have "Abbey Lane," as their "garage" on bustimes.org. According to tracking, 66705 has gone back to EMA and 44761 has gone to Leicester.
First Leicester have registered JetParks 2 as another depot/outstation on the Leicester Citybus LTD operating licence with an allocation of 5 vehicles.
Most likely they're stored at Jet Parks 2 when not in use and come back to Abbey Lane for maintenance etc...
See: https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/view-details/licence/21591
63502/3 have started tracking today on bustimes.org
they appear to be doing route training of some description
Quote from: Fin W on May 09, 2023, 05:14:58 PM63502/3 have started tracking today on bustimes.org
they appear to be doing route training of some description
Driver familiarisation together with testing the vehicles on the routes (as they are slightly longer than the max Streetlites). Most likely will see them tested under the bridge at Gypsy lane (route 21), and through the Optimus point bus gate (route 13). As well as few other areas.
Not sure when they'll enter service but I'd say soon! Some Streetlites are very uncomfortable now. I'd say they've stopped maintaining them knowing they are going to move on.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on May 10, 2023, 10:20:34 AMSome Streetlites are very uncomfortable now. I'd say they've stopped maintaining them knowing they are going to move on.
Do you really think a big group would 'stop maintaining' its buses
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on May 10, 2023, 10:20:34 AMDriver familiarisation together with testing the vehicles on the routes (as they are slightly longer than the max Streetlites). Most likely will see them tested under the bridge at Gypsy lane (route 21), and through the Optimus point bus gate (route 13). As well as few other areas.
Not sure when they'll enter service but I'd say soon! Some Streetlites are very uncomfortable now. I'd say they've stopped maintaining them knowing they are going to move on.
The Gipsy Lane bridge is height restricted to 12 meters so hopefully they'll fit under it.
Quote from: SSmith2009 on May 10, 2023, 02:14:16 PMThe Gipsy Lane bridge is height restricted to 12 meters so hopefully they'll fit under it.
I presume you mean 12' not 12m
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on May 10, 2023, 10:20:34 AMDriver familiarisation together with testing the vehicles on the routes (as they are slightly longer than the max Streetlites). Most likely will see them tested under the bridge at Gypsy lane (route 21), and through the Optimus point bus gate (route 13). As well as few other areas.
Not sure when they'll enter service but I'd say soon! Some Streetlites are very uncomfortable now. I'd say they've stopped maintaining them knowing they are going to move on.
First's GB Kites are 11ft 1inch (3380mm) so should fit under Barkby Road bridge.
GB Kite parked up at Abbey Lane showing the height above the doors (https://www.flickr.com/photos/197333117@N05/52868581707)
The first 2 GB Kites entered passenger service today!
Service 17 - 63502 & 63504 were the chosen ones. 63508 continues driver familiarisation running between depot, city and Beaumont Leys.
3 UID green Kites noted today 2 on the back of low loaders on the A50 Uttoxeter and 1 being driven on A500 in Stoke, presume on the way to Leicester
63347 has left for Potteries. The first single decker to leave Leicester following the introduction of electric buses to service. 63345 was also set to move to Potteries, but apparently it didn't make it and has been towed back to Leicester?
I guess this whole batch is likely next to go in coming weeks / months.
Second route for Electric bus is service 21.
63502 was chosen.
67703/5 spotted this morning on the M5 heading south
From what I can see..
Electrics have now been used on service 4, 16, 17, 21, 38, 38A, 54 & 88/88A.
11 are serviceable. 63521 entered yesterday on 21, and I managed to get a ride on it from Thurmaston and it was certainly great. It's got a louder front speaker than the rest (as you can hear it on the bus too).. it's supposed to alert passengers of a vehicle as electrics are quiet. It's like a gentle wine which increases tone as the speed of vehicle increases.
Any idea when next stop / audio / visual announcements will be active? The display that currently displays the time & date is essentially like the old star trak display, and there's a number of speakers next to the lights within the strips.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on June 04, 2023, 12:01:00 AMFrom what I can see..
Electrics have now been used on service 4, 16, 17, 21, 38, 38A, 54 & 88/88A.
Further update:
routes 15, 25, 26 & 74 have now also been operated by electric.
This just leaves 13, (13W!), 14 & 14A to not have yet had an electric vehicle.
13W probably won't until the DD's arrive due to it becoming first 54 of the day. But surprised they haven't at least tried on the 14/A yet. Maybe this is an indication that they'll leave this route DD?
13 I guess requires them to programme the bus gate at Optimus Point? So probably take longer to do. I know when the E400's first arrived the driver had to call using the intercom at the bus gate for it to be opened! (Since been programmed however).
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on June 05, 2023, 10:40:22 PMFurther update:
routes 15, 25, 26 & 74 have now also been operated by electric.
This just leaves 13, (13W!), 14 & 14A to not have yet had an electric vehicle.
13W probably won't until the DD's arrive due to it becoming first 54 of the day. But surprised they haven't at least tried on the 14/A yet. Maybe this is an indication that they'll leave this route DD?
13 I guess requires them to programme the bus gate at Optimus Point? So probably take longer to do. I know when the E400's first arrived the driver had to call using the intercom at the bus gate for it to be opened! (Since been programmed however).
Don't think any have gone on the 18 yet have they?
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on June 06, 2023, 08:06:50 PMDon't think any have gone on the 18 yet have they?
Correct as of today (6th June) no electrics have been onto service 18.
Although 14's branded E400 33696 has spent the afternoon on service 18 today.
Quote from: SSmith2009 on June 06, 2023, 08:36:27 PMCorrect as of today (6th June) no electrics have been onto service 18.
Although 14's branded E400 33696 has spent the afternoon on service 18 today.
63501 is the first electric bus to be used on service 18 it should be on the xx30 departures from City Centre
Volvo B7RLE 69438 WX59BYP and 69442 WX59BYU have been transferred to olive grove depot in Sheffield.
Quote from: SSmith2009 on June 07, 2023, 07:29:36 AM63501 is the first electric bus to be used on service 18 it should be on the xx30 departures from City Centre
And 63523 got a few journeys on 13 too..
This now just leaves 14/14A to yet to have an electric bus.
Probably waiting on the electric StreetDecks.
It has been reported that a number of First Leicester's 630xx StreetLites have been sold to Rotala, via Ensign as dealer.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on June 08, 2023, 09:30:49 AMIt has been reported that a number of First Leicester's 630xx StreetLites have been sold to Rotala, via Ensign as dealer.
Winston has already posted the full list on here. They are also listed on the main site
Quote from: Tony on June 08, 2023, 10:05:00 AMWinston has already posted the full list on here. They are also listed on the main site
Yes - I saw Winston's post after I had made my post. I must admit I hadn't previously noticed an Ensign section on the main site.
Quote from: 47609FireFly on June 08, 2023, 12:10:39 PMYes - I saw Winston's post after I had made my post. I must admit I hadn't previously noticed an Ensign section on the main site.
My first post re: The Streetlites was here on 21st May:
https://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=3618.210
Quote from: winston on June 08, 2023, 12:26:53 PMMy first post re: The Streetlites was here on 21st May:
https://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=3618.210
Ta. With zero interest in goings on at Diamond, I must confess that I never read that section of the board. I posted here because it was relevant to First Leicester (and not just Diamond). I was made aware of the sale some time ago but was not permitted to say anything until it became common knowledge. Thanks for the post.
I know this isn't really anything to do with First as such. But I noticed the council has now installed one of the digital bus stops at Glenfield Square. (This is outside the city area but within the flexi area.. on First 13. Similarly they've done it in Thurmaston on the 21!). However the stop they've installed it all already has a digital screen. So confused why they've done it there but not installed it at the Park Drive Terminus, or around the corner on Station Road for Centrebus 40?
Any idea if other / all / stops in flexi area are being upgraded or just a select few?
I suppose the same at West Bridge (FF) the bus shelter equally has a departures screen, and a bus stop with departure times too?
Probably because no one involved has any common sense.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on June 07, 2023, 04:09:27 PMAnd 63523 got a few journeys on 13 too..
This now just leaves 14/14A to yet to have an electric bus.
63521 was used for a round trip on the 14 yesterday
63505 and 63508 have spent most of the day on the 14/14A today
Just leaves the 13W and 22B yet to have electrics used on them
Interesting they've used singles on the 14s, i wonder if thats something that will happen more often
If bustimes.org is to be believed then 35172 did a dead run yesterday after being off the road for around 8 months
69439-69441 WX59BYR/S/T have been transferred to First South Yorkshire.
First are currently recruiting Coach Drivers for a "Leicester to Birmingham Airport" service...
https://careers.firstbus.co.uk/jobs/vacancy/coach-driver-0322-leicester/340/description/
Some changes have been registered for the start of summer holidays.
I cannot see what has changed with 14/A, but 18, 74 & 88/A/E have all had slight reduction (74 & 18 switching to only every 30 mins) Mon-Fri. 13 has had further evening changes to better line up buses for the Optimus Point Warehouses, but no changes to daytime or Sunday.
Read on Facebook sprinters have arrived at Abbey lane ahead of a new service? If these are the coaches? Poor drivers applying for a job thinking they'll actually drive a coach? Or maybe these for something else?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on June 19, 2023, 11:24:11 PMSome changes have been registered for the start of summer holidays.
I cannot see what has changed with 14/A, but 18, 74 & 88/A/E have all had slight reduction (74 & 18 switching to only every 30 mins) Mon-Fri. 13 has had further evening changes to better line up buses for the Optimus Point Warehouses, but no changes to daytime or Sunday.
14/14a are dropping down to every 15 mins each during the off-peak daytime.
New timetables are on the first website under forthcoming timetables
Quote from: SSmith2009 on June 16, 2023, 09:45:47 PMIf bustimes.org is to be believed then 35172 did a dead run yesterday after being off the road for around 8 months
It appears to be back in service. Although I didn't ride on it and I cannot be 100% certain. I did see a double decker on the 38A route.. and looking at bus times where I saw it matches up to the run on the 38A. Must be fixed up 👍
Confirmed via a picture on Facebook - 35172 is indeed back out.
Interestingly they've added tap on tap off branding (removing the 22 branding).. however they have left on one little bit of the 22 branding on drivers side top saying "To & From the Station"!
Adding tap on tap off branding would seem to me that it's likely to be staying out in Leicester for a while longer yet.
69303 has left for First West of England.
Can anyone confirm whether 69380 has also gone?
I have noticed several kites don't have tap on tap off readers installed yet, i'm guessing they are taking them off of the old buses when they leave and putting them onto the kites
Quote from: Fin W on June 24, 2023, 09:51:57 PMI have noticed several kites don't have tap on tap off readers installed yet, i'm guessing they are taking them off of the old buses when they leave and putting them onto the kites
Quite a few of the readers are out of use so they could be waiting for replacements? Arriva have some out of use too.
You can still tap off at the front though
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on June 24, 2023, 09:15:30 PM69303 has left for First West of England.
Can anyone confirm whether 69380 has also gone?
It's back.. was just a temporary loan to help with Glastonbury
63107/8 have transferred from Abbey Lane to Olive Grove
It would seem that every route except for 13W (and the contract services) have now had an electric bus in use at one point.
22B had one last Saturday, and there has been a few trips made recently on 14/14A too.
Whilst this week seems to have been a bit slow in launching of new buses (compared to previous weeks).. it will be interesting to see which Streetlites go next and eventually what double deckers go first. (Heard 3 E400's are likely to stay as backup/Amazon contracts).. also heard from another source order of 18 has increased to 24 double deckers.. although nothing officially confirmed.
Let's hope that the order has been increased, only 18 deckers would be ridiculous
Is there an event shuttle taking place on the A47?
Can see 3 Streetdecks running (as Dead) on bustimes?
Seems strange time to plan for a new route.. hence why thought I'd ask?
I notice that, according to bustimes.org, there are no electric vehicles out today (Sun 16th July) on First Leicester routes. I think this also happened a few weeks ago and, on other Sundays, there have been only a small number of electrics working.
Does anyone know any reason why the electric buses aren't being used so much on Sundays - following all the fanfare about their introduction, I would have expected it to be the other way round, with a full electric output on the single-deck routes once there were enough vehicles in service (which there are now).
The only reason i can think of is that because of where the chargers are located, they were blocked in by diesels in front
The evening of 19/07/2023 saw electrics operating late night services for the first time, with routes 25/26, 38/38A & 88E all having electric vehicles allocated. Looked quite impressive seeing all three in the Haymarket Bus Station together, ready for their 2300 hours departure.
No Streetlites in service today.. (Friday 21st July)
Just leaves the saffron diesel single deckers left! Rest electric!
No movement of any DD's yet. But I guess that will happen next?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on July 21, 2023, 09:16:01 AMNo Streetlites in service today.. (Friday 21st July)
Just leaves the saffron diesel single deckers left! Rest electric!
No movement of any DD's yet. But I guess that will happen next?
Doubt any of the double decker fleet will go anywhere just yet as not all of the single deck electrics are here or in service.
Although if bustimes.org is to be believed a number of streetdecks haven't been used for a few days but that could be down to the lower summer frequencies
UID Saffron liveried B7 heading south on M5 nr Worcester on suspended tow this afternoon about 13.00 also another one on the 38 Thurnby Lodge this afternoon
Quote from: Mayfield on July 24, 2023, 07:12:15 PMUID Saffron liveried B7 heading south on M5 nr Worcester on suspended tow this afternoon about 13.00 also another one on the 38 Thurnby Lodge this afternoon
Presumably either 69305 or 69380 as they haven't seen service in over a month
Quote from: Mayfield on July 24, 2023, 07:12:15 PMUID Saffron liveried B7 heading south on M5 nr Worcester on suspended tow this afternoon about 13.00 also another one on the 38 Thurnby Lodge this afternoon
Equally one was on the 18 too. (14/13 interworking also regularly sees an orange E400 on 13 too!)
Since Nigel went the allocations seem very random! Always been the case. It's a downside to route branding vehicles. However with good management it does work. (As we saw pre-Covid).
63522/3/4 according to Bustimes have not been used for over a month, anyone know why ?
Quote from: Mayfield on July 25, 2023, 08:01:35 PM63522/3/4 according to Bustimes have not been used for over a month, anyone know why ?
63522 was involved in an RTC on its first day in service.
Unsure as to why 63523/24 haven't been used.
Weirdly 33700 is the only e400 out today in regular public service
Quote from: Fin W on July 29, 2023, 04:48:20 PMWeirdly 33700 is the only e400 out today in regular public service
Saturday service requires less DD's, and they had none on the 4.. so I guess they put the Streetdecks out across 14/14A instead!
I heard from a driver that Streetdecks are better on fuel than the E400's.. but the E400's perform a lot better on the motorways (hence they use them on the Amazon services!). (And also why it looks like they'll be keeping some even when electric DD's arrive solely for the Amazon services - although I guess could possibly still get use if they still only have the 18 ordered).
Also weird.. tonight 13 has a Streetdeck.. but all week (except Thursday) they had a kite.. weird though as generally the midweek is busier later due to Optimus point! So not sure why that is? Haha
3 Streetdecks have now left Leicester.. 35153 is off to Worcester.. 35176/77 are also at Worcester but moving through later on.
Quote from: LazyGuy222 on June 24, 2023, 09:15:30 PM69303 has left for First West of England.
Can anyone confirm whether 69380 has also gone?
I'm guessing 69303 is going to be a trainer over the Bridge from me......
According to bus times 69303 is on EMA long stay car park duties today
Any update on the Leicester to Birmingham airport service, when it's starting and what vehicles to be used
Quote from: Mayfield on August 03, 2023, 05:26:11 PMAny update on the Leicester to Birmingham airport service, when it's starting and what vehicles to be used
Nothing has been registered.. although somebody on Facebook said September..
Perhaps it will run as a coach service so has a different registration? Or could it simply be it's a staff / private service?
Also to note: 15 ran a mix of DD and singles today.. I guess this is a sign of what is to come.. Full DD on 54, then the rest split between mixed on 13, 14/A & 15?
Also:
New timetables available - basically looks like 18, 74 & 88/A are reverting back to pre-summer services.. 14/A also but with slightly revised times (maybe to stop bunching in St.Margaret's). New weekend times on 38/A also..
There is an interesting (and fairly well-hidden) page on the First Leicester website about the Leicester electric buses:
https://www.firstbus.co.uk/leicester/about-us/leicester-electric
Towards the bottom of the page is a link to download a PDF booklet which seems to be a copy of a booklet produced for the launch event of theses buses - it has quite a bit of useful information about the project so is well worth a read.
I quite like the animation at the top of the page, too!
Does anyone know if the EMA contact has ended or is it just the buses don't track anymore as nothing has tracked since 11th August
Quote from: Mayfield on August 16, 2023, 07:57:03 PMDoes anyone know if the EMA contact has ended or is it just the buses don't track anymore as nothing has tracked since 11th August
Highly unlikely as it's peak travel season
Maybe as they're not registered services (private contracts) that's why they don't track same with BHX3
only registered services track now for some reason. Dead runs, EMA buses and the BHX3 don't track as a result.
Quote from: Fin W on August 17, 2023, 09:50:48 AMonly registered services track now for some reason. Dead runs, EMA buses and the BHX3 don't track as a result.
Correct.. all still run.
BHX3 has a different "private" registration compared to BHX5.. and EMA also has the same "Private" registration.
It's likely bus times will update and these may show up again at some point in future!
Strange that 44762 according to bus times has tracked at 02.00 on the 4 for the last 2 days.
All kites are apparently now here (according to bus times)..
Tuesday will see New weekday times, with full PVR.. so will be interesting to see what's allocated where!
Noticed a lot of comments about 14/A being like Sardines..
Let's hope First realise their mistake and increase the DD order (which Leicester is currently last expected Jan 24)!
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on August 26, 2023, 10:40:16 PMAll kites are apparently now here (according to bus times)..
Tuesday will see New weekday times, with full PVR.. so will be interesting to see what's allocated where!
Noticed a lot of comments about 14/A being like Sardines..
Let's hope First realise their mistake and increase the DD order (which Leicester is currently last expected Jan 24)!
Yes they're all now at Abbey Lane with the illusive 63531 understood to be the last one entering into service today.
the 14's are getting ridiculously full yet deckers run near enough empty elsewhere 🙄
Interior branding is being fitted to the electrics with a few done so far, the branding is just basic ticketing info with Leicester Buses logo and the panel behind the driver features pictures of a Leicester landmark.
63557 is one that's been branded and features St Georges Tower (the blue one at the bottom end of Charles Street)
Today (31st August).. the first time an electric has been used on service 13W..
Interestingly 54 is being run today by mostly single deckers? Maybe Leicester buses news was incorrect when it said 8 DD's for 54?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on August 31, 2023, 08:07:12 AMToday (31st August).. the first time an electric has been used on service 13W..
Interestingly 54 is being run today by mostly single deckers? Maybe Leicester buses news was incorrect when it said 8 DD's for 54?
Certainly at least 18 double deckers are due, a number of the streetdecks have departed so they're using what they've got for now.
Quote from: SSmith09 on August 31, 2023, 02:24:17 PMCertainly at least 18 double deckers are due, a number of the streetdecks have departed so they're using what they've got for now.
Yep, I know there's 18 coming..
They've currently got 20 serviceable DD's left in the fleet..
The Leicester buses website says 54 will be allocated 8 DD's - however from what I've seen past few days, 54 alongside 15 & 14/A have been very much mixed boards. With no clear DD allocation.
I still personally think they've got it wrong.. they should have replaced like for like or if anything ordered more DD's.. The Leicester bus plan won't work if people are crammed on board.
Just like HH from Centrebus.. I know people avoid this service as it's always full, council even acknowledges it, but no plan to introduce DD's there either..
(I think a lot of it came down to Leicester city council taking charge rather than the actual bid companies, due to the government grant)..
I believe there's 22 D/D's available and the HH is only full at peak times.
According to Bustimes there was a Mercedes Sprinter 54154 on the 14A this morning ????
Quote from: Mayfield on September 05, 2023, 09:58:18 AMAccording to Bustimes there was a Mercedes Sprinter 54154 on the 14A this morning ????
It only tracked in the depot https://bustimes.org/vehicles/flei-54154#journeys/473237078
Not sure how bus times works but can you please explain how you know it only tracked in the depot
Quote from: Mayfield on September 05, 2023, 01:24:54 PMNot sure how bus times works but can you please explain how you know it only tracked in the depot
Just select track this bus
All 7 Saffron buses were out in service today! September 5th.. this is the first time all have been serviceable since mid June! But strangely.. around 10 Kites are not in service? Do first have a date when these B7RLEs are going out of service?
Strange.. 69383 started tracking as 69303 this afternoon? Maybe driver entered incorrect ticket machine info?
69303 is correctly tracking as BHX5 - and also did a run on 15! But the rest (88A, 88 & 88E journeys) are all 69383!
Also noticed Amazon bus (BHX3) now seems to be the 10am 14A journey again - 13 has gone back to just being a short running board for 1 bus in the morning although afternoon 13 peak does still inter work with 14.
Also noticed the 15 seems to have some vehicles just doing short boards too? Is this because of the extra buses what with Saffrons still around? Or is it permanent (and more electrics still need to be ordered)?
The website for the new Leicester to Birmingham Airport service is now online https://aircoach.travel/
Looking at the timetable on bustimes.org for the AirCoach service it looks like the PVR is 3 minibuses will be used with the other one acting as a spare?
The timings seem a bit tight to me just over 70 mins each way.
Timetable: https://bustimes.org/services/aircoach-leicester-st-margarets-bus-station-birmin
Quote from: SSmith09 on September 15, 2023, 08:20:30 PMLooking at the timetable on bustimes.org for the AirCoach service it looks like the PVR is 3 minibuses will be used with the other one acting as a spare?
The timings seem a bit tight to me just over 70 mins each way.
Timetable: https://bustimes.org/services/aircoach-leicester-st-margarets-bus-station-birmin
As the only stop on the way is Fosse Park, I think it's reasonable.. as it's a mini bus it's likely it can do 70mph (rather than the main coach limited max speed of 62mph). My guess is they will head out along Narborough Road (but at peak times could use Hinckley road & Lubbesthorpe way). There appears to be more time added at each end so I guess this covers if there is a delay due to traffic?
Also read on Facebook.. possibly more Double Deckers on the way after all? Some Leeds batch being diverted to Leicester taking total to 26? (Would make a lot more sense!).
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on September 16, 2023, 12:07:59 AMAlso read on Facebook.. possibly more Double Deckers on the way after all? Some Leeds batch being diverted to Leicester taking total to 26? (Would make a lot more sense!).
Hope this is true as they're certainly needed!
the current mixture of singles on the 13 and 14 is awful, end up crammed in like sardines for most of the day 😔
The Kites are full on route 15 also, that needs deckers too
Quote from: SSmith09 on September 16, 2023, 06:28:01 AMHope this is true as they're certainly needed!
the current mixture of singles on the 13 and 14 is awful, end up crammed in like sardines for most of the day 😔
I've raised several complaints regarding 13 & 14 since start of the new school year - but so far nothing has been acted on?
Noted today, probably busiest Sunday in Leicester.. 14 is full of singles?
Cannot work it out.. at all! It just shows (to me personally) how the new First Managing Structure does not work. You need local managers (not huge regional ones!).
I personally would be running a full DD output on 4, 14/A, 15 & 54, and have mixed boards across 13, 18, 38/A, 74 and the 88's.
Equally full single routes would then just leave 16, 17, 21 (obvious reasons), 25/26 (22B).. but even for these routes I'd be adjusting the timetables so more buses are on them! This is personally where I find Leicester buses has gone wrong.. they should be pushing for this rather than spending money on cycle lanes, new bus stops and actually if more use the bus there wouldn't be need for more bus lanes as more would be off the road anyway!
I guess someone 100's of miles away will wonder why it busy in Leicester today as he listens to radio 4
Has air coach started yet as nothing I'd tracking
Quote from: Mayfield on September 20, 2023, 10:00:44 AMHas air coach started yet as nothing I'd tracking
Yes it has started but doesn't track yet.
Quite a few bus stops around Leicester now have adverts in the timetable cases for aircoach.
63548 was on 13 today.. but driver on the 12.20 departure couldn't "start it"! It was sat at the bus stop just outside St.Margarets.. for about 15 minutes! I noticed again it did the same at "One Stop" in glenfield.. all the lights flashing (indicators, brake lights etc)! They can't be worn out already yet surely.. ?
I notice after the journey it went into haymarket and later venture onto 25 (according to bus times).. Was it fixed?
Anyone know why the following have not been in service for weeks according to Bustimes
63506/522/523/531
Quote from: Mayfield on September 25, 2023, 07:39:36 PMAnyone know why the following have not been in service for weeks according to Bustimes
63506/522/523/531
63522 is away undergoing RTC repairs looking at flikr
Quote from: Fin W on September 25, 2023, 08:27:52 PM63522 is away undergoing RTC repairs looking at flikr
Has 63531 even been delivered yet?
At one time it had a registration number on Bustimes and a journey against it but the registration number quickly disappeared, so possibly not.
Quote from: Mayfield on September 26, 2023, 10:23:24 AMAt one time it had a registration number on Bustimes and a journey against it but the registration number quickly disappeared, so possibly not.
Understand it went back to wrightbus for modification works.
it never entered service and should be registered as a 73 plate upon it's return to Leicester
Quote from: Mayfield on September 26, 2023, 10:23:24 AMAt one time it had a registration number on Bustimes and a journey against it but the registration number quickly disappeared, so possibly not.
It incorrectly tracked.. basically it was a different bus but had wrong fleet number on the ticket machine!
I had one of the Aircoach minibuses overtake me on the Narborough Road South this morning, around 0400 (I can't remember if Owain had started prattling along or not). It veered off up Fullhurst Avenue to avoid the road closure on the Narborough Road after the petrol station due to the stabbing last night.
The saffrons appear to be leaving now. Today just 3 remaining in service. I guess issues with electric singles have been ironed out. Although still 2 not been in use since June?
Still a lot of customers unhappy along the 13/14/18 routes that buses are too full / and are being left behind. Twitter team say it's being monitored.. but like one complainant was saying how can they monitor how many are being skipped past at bus stops? Wondering how the 54's getting on too..
It's not good really axing so many double deckers. Even potteries now has more double deckers. Which the old MD said Leicester was in a good position compared to pmt.. so why would they put more doubles there than in Leicester?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on October 06, 2023, 08:04:03 PMThe saffrons appear to be leaving now. Today just 3 remaining in service. I guess issues with electric singles have been ironed out. Although still 2 not been in use since June?
Still a lot of customers unhappy along the 13/14/18 routes that buses are too full / and are being left behind. Twitter team say it's being monitored.. but like one complainant was saying how can they monitor how many are being skipped past at bus stops? Wondering how the 54's getting on too..
It's not good really axing so many double deckers. Even potteries now has more double deckers. Which the old MD said Leicester was in a good position compared to pmt.. so why would they put more doubles there than in Leicester?
The big problem on both the 15 and 54 is headway. There isn't sufficient bus priority in Leicester to deliver a reliable and robust 7/8 minute headway without bunching occurring. This is exacerbated if you have a nonchalant driver with a tardy attitude to right time running. What you end up with is single-deck (1) in front being loaded to the gunnels - that increases unloading time and dwell time at stops is increased. Single-deck (2) behind has an easy ride and catches up the bus in front, increasing the gap with the bus behind. Single-deck (3) then gets a hammering and so on and so forth...
In addition, hands-on, frontline service delivery isn't there to deal with any problems and keep the service running reliably. This isn't a problem unique to First.
Customers are key to sorting this out through regularly communicating and complaining to the company.
On the face of it, there are fewer political strings attached to PMT than Leicester. In Stoke, passenger numbers on certain routes have grown and the company has reacted in a positive way, by bringing in other double-deck resources from elsewhere; the two, reasonably new, StreetDecks from York. Fair play to them that they've used something reasonably youthful rather than procuring life-expired / semi life-expired double-deckers. There was a fair deal of commitment to get the electric ball rolling in Leicester and maybe someone did act with a touch of haste (who knows) with opting to go for so many saloons - there's nothing to say that, in time, if the loadings do become regularly too much for single-decks, they can't go elsewhere in group and be replaced by electric deckers. Like I said at the start though, bus priority and front line delivery needs to improve exponentially. With Sunak's comment about not wanting a 'war on motorists', I cannot see Leicester ceasing to be a traffic ridden place, where car drivers believe they have carte blanche to ignore traffic regulation orders, any time soon.
A Streetlite has returned and is back on 17 today. Not sure if it's a loan (at least until all electric singles are back out), or if permanent to help with overloading?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on October 16, 2023, 10:23:44 AMA Streetlite has returned and is back on 17 today. Not sure if it's a loan (at least until all electric singles are back out), or if permanent to help with overloading?
the seated capacity of streetlites is around the same as the electric single deckers but the electrics have a higher standing capacity owing to the flat floor.
Frequent14 E400 33700 has done some trips on the 88A today while 33733 has been on the 15.
63109 is understood to be here for amazon work, makes sense as 33718 has been off for a while.
63531 is now out in service on the 54
Registered as BK73 AMV
Quote from: SSmith09 on October 16, 2023, 08:18:33 PMthe seated capacity of streetlites is around the same as the electric single deckers but the electrics have a higher standing capacity owing to the flat floor.
Frequent14 E400 33700 has done some trips on the 88A today while 33733 has been on the 15.
63109 is understood to be here for amazon work, makes sense as 33718 has been off for a while.
So far it hasn't been used on Amazon Work. I mean, even when we had Streetlites it was rare for them to be used on Amazon duties as they don't like the motorway's.
3 E400's in frequent fourteen are on Amazon shuttles and occasionally do run in normal service (around 10am for a few journeys.. mostly in 14A but occasionally on other routes, as you've identified).
With the arrival of the last Kite.. looks like all Saffrons are now out of use.
Whilst it's gone quiet on exactly what Electroliner Streetdecks are arriving (and when).. I notice Leicester buses website now says mid 2024! With apparently service 4 & 15 receiving them? Do we know if the extra 6 mentioned (From Leeds) are still coming or is it back to just 18?
Still seeing a lot of overcrowding on routes 13, 14 & 18!
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on October 27, 2023, 05:40:37 PMSo far it hasn't been used on Amazon Work. I mean, even when we had Streetlites it was rare for them to be used on Amazon duties as they don't like the motorway's.
3 E400's in frequent fourteen are on Amazon shuttles and occasionally do run in normal service (around 10am for a few journeys.. mostly in 14A but occasionally on other routes, as you've identified).
With the arrival of the last Kite.. looks like all Saffrons are now out of use.
Whilst it's gone quiet on exactly what Electroliner Streetdecks are arriving (and when).. I notice Leicester buses website now says mid 2024! With apparently service 4 & 15 receiving them? Do we know if the extra 6 mentioned (From Leeds) are still coming or is it back to just 18?
Still seeing a lot of overcrowding on routes 13, 14 & 18!
Is the BHX3 still running? The B7RLEs could be on use on that still since it doesn't track
Just need to find out what's happened to 63523, not tracked since June
Quote from: Fin W on October 27, 2023, 07:06:55 PMIs the BHX3 still running? The B7RLEs could be on use on that still since it doesn't track
There's at least 1 E400 on the BHX3. Not sure about the B7RLE's as not sure if duplicate is needed there. Maybe it is? As I know BHX5 is currently Duplicated?
63522 is back in service in Leicester, although it doesn't appear to be tracking at the moment.
It was on 88A yesterday (Monday 30th) as I was making my way to visit someone in the Royal Infirmary, working the 1330 from City Centre to Saffron Crossroads.
It has been on 38/38A today (Tuesday 31st), viewed working the 1701 38A to Thurnby Lodge as I was returning from today's hospital visit.
It isn't tracking as a different vehicle - the journeys it would have worked have just not tracked at all.
Quote from: xmj-signal on October 31, 2023, 07:13:15 PM63522 is back in service in Leicester, although it doesn't appear to be tracking at the moment.
It was on 88A yesterday (Monday 30th) as I was making my way to visit someone in the Royal Infirmary, working the 1330 from City Centre to Saffron Crossroads.
It has been on 38/38A today (Tuesday 31st), viewed working the 1701 38A to Thurnby Lodge as I was returning from today's hospital visit.
It isn't tracking as a different vehicle - the journeys it would have worked have just not tracked at all.
Most of the fleet have had a 4G signal box fitted to the back of the ticketers (they currently use 3G signal but that is being phased out in the coming years), maybe it has not had one fitted yet which is causing it not to track?
It's tracking this morning
A number of service changes have been registered for 7th Jan.
Whilst most look like timetable changes, looks like 16 & 17 have new city centre stops?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on November 20, 2023, 07:11:40 PMA number of service changes have been registered for 7th Jan.
Whilst most look like timetable changes, looks like 16 & 17 have new city centre stops?
According to the Leicester Buses website its just tweaks to improve reliability (see https://www.leicesterbuses.co.uk/service-changes) along with some arriva and Centrebus changes on the same weekend.
Shame the Sunday frequencies on the 88/88A aren't being improved as the buses are always full 😒
Quote from: SSmith09 on November 20, 2023, 09:12:05 PMAccording to the Leicester Buses website its just tweaks to improve reliability (see https://www.leicesterbuses.co.uk/service-changes) along with some arriva and Centrebus changes on the same weekend.
Shame the Sunday frequencies on the 88/88A aren't being improved as the buses are always full 😒
I still think Personally they should do an 88E all day on Sunday and have them every 30mins! (Maybe even 20 like pre-Covid!).
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on November 20, 2023, 07:11:40 PMA number of service changes have been registered for 7th Jan.
Whilst most look like timetable changes, looks like 16 & 17 have new city centre stops?
It looks like the start/end points in the registration for route 17 have been wrong since April, when its central barrier moved from Charles Street to the stop on Humberstone Gate East formerly used by routes 88 and 88A (which had moved to Haymarket Bus Station), so that's just a bit of "tidying-up" rather than an upcoming change, I think.
It's always started and finished in Humberstone Gate, maybe it because it's moved stops
Quote from: Mayfield on November 22, 2023, 10:35:06 PMIt's always started and finished in Humberstone Gate, maybe it because it's moved stops
Sorry, I have to disagree.
The August 2022 timetable leaflet shows route 17 as Charles Street (Stand CD) - Highfields - Charles Street.
It moved to Humberstone Gate East in April 2023.
Wright Streetlite 63110 (SM13 NCV) has joined 63109 in Leicester from stoke - still retains thePotteries branding so presumably just a short term loan
Quote from: SSmith09 on November 23, 2023, 11:58:24 AMWright Streetlite 63110 (SM13 NCV) has joined 63109 in Leicester from stoke - still retains thePotteries branding so presumably just a short term loan
Just a loan.. paper in window states this.
It's covering for an E400 which is being used to boost BHX5 (yes 3 in use on this route) - due to Black Friday. Not sure how long it will be boosted for.
Probably a week as The term Friday means nothing this day and age.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on November 23, 2023, 04:05:19 PMJust a loan.. paper in window states this.
It's covering for an E400 which is being used to boost BHX5 (yes 3 in use on this route) - due to Black Friday. Not sure how long it will be boosted for.
thought as much.
the E400s are certainly getting about 33733 has spent most of the day on the 54 and 33700 on the PM peak 74s while the 14/14a struggle on with singles 🙄
All remaining saffron busses seems to have been de branded and turned to driver trainers. Making 6 driver training busses at Abbey Lane. Wonder if they will all stay or will move around.
Anyone know what's happening with the EMA shuttle busses?
Quote from: Pscar05 on December 01, 2023, 11:17:10 PMAnyone know what's happening with the EMA shuttle busses?
They're still running but not tracking if that answers your question
Quote from: Fin W on December 01, 2023, 11:20:55 PMThey're still running but not tracking if that answers your question
I knew they wasn't tracking but seen one has been sold and on buslists they all got moved to D&G busses so was wondering if anyone knew.
*UPDATE*
4/5 busses have been sold to D&G busses
Proof: https://the-bus-shop.co.uk/buses-coaches-for-rental/sold-vehicles/
Quote from: Pscar05 on December 01, 2023, 11:22:20 PMI knew they wasn't tracking but seen one has been sold and on buslists they all got moved to D&G busses so was wondering if anyone knew.
*UPDATE*
4/5 busses have been sold to D&G busses
Proof: https://the-bus-shop.co.uk/buses-coaches-for-rental/sold-vehicles/
I guess it's now ended.. even when Arriva had the contract, buses only ran about March to November..
I have read that next year they will be using new buses.
Strange allocations past few days.. involving the Orange BHX5 buses! They've ran quite a few "in between" journeys on 74, 15 & 38. (As well as the usual BHX3 going on the 14A 10am board). Then on Saturday at one point both on 13, and then on the 16!
Have they finally realised they need to maximise the double deckers due to the lack of them? Or just coincidence?
Equally I guess to the management the orange is just a colour? Wonder if they'll be rebranded from "Frequent Fourteens"?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on December 03, 2023, 12:35:44 AMStrange allocations past few days.. involving the Orange BHX5 buses! They've ran quite a few "in between" journeys on 74, 15 & 38. (As well as the usual BHX3 going on the 14A 10am board). Then on Saturday at one point both on 13, and then on the 16!
Have they finally realised they need to maximise the double deckers due to the lack of them? Or just coincidence?
Equally I guess to the management the orange is just a colour? Wonder if they'll be rebranded from "Frequent Fourteens"?
I'd guess its down to vehicle availability although quite a few trips have been missed out across the 14/14a and 88/88a mostly during the last week.
If there short of vehicles why withdraw all the Saffrons
63109 in Christmas wrap, looks to be the same as what other streetlies have worn in the past few years
Any idea what has happened to 63523, appears to have not been in service for over 6 months,
It's also still taxed
Quote from: Mayfield on December 22, 2023, 07:46:55 PMAny idea what has happened to 63523, appears to have not been in service for over 6 months,
It's also still taxed
It was being used for parts of other busses that was used in collisions. It's at workshops at the moment.
From what your saying it appears that Wrights can't supply spares for brand new buses,
Expensive way to keep buses on the road but aye oh these are funded by H M gov so ultimately we the tax payer are paying for something that is useless just like the NX hydrogens and most gov services in this country, good job the cash cow never empties.
Quote from: Mayfield on December 30, 2023, 06:36:22 PMFrom what your saying it appears that Wrights can't supply spares for brand new buses,
Expensive way to keep buses on the road but aye oh these are funded by H M gov so ultimately we the tax payer are paying for something that is useless just like the NX hydrogens and most gov services in this country, good job the cash cow never empties.
Your statement is wrong on so many reasons.
It's standard practice is a bus is long term off the road for something like collision to 'borrow' parts to get others repaired quickly while the parts are being delivered.
The tax payer is paying for nothing in this case.
It's nothing like the hydrogen problem of fuelling, There's no shortage of electricity at Leicester depot.
It says funded by U.K. government on the side so which ever way you look at it the tax payers have funded a bus that hasn't turned a wheel in over 6 months, poor after sales service if you have to cannibalize a bus to keep others on the road, parts should be readily available especially for a brand new product.
The government provided the extra cost between a standard bus and a zero emission vehicle, but has nothing to do with maintenance so not paying towards this vehicle.
As I said if the vehicle is off the road anyway parts will be borrowed if it means another bus can be on the road within an hour or so.
I would imagine First will have a parts contract with Wrightbus similar to one NX have with Alexander Dennis, but even next day delivery could still mean a bus missing an afternoon peak and the following morning peak if the part isn't borrowed.
More & more posts on Facebook and Twitter x about over crowding.. and still nothing seeming to be done about it!
Any ideas who we should complain to? Traffic commissioner? First management at head office? The government?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on January 04, 2024, 05:38:30 PMMore & more posts on Facebook and Twitter x about over crowding.. and still nothing seeming to be done about it!
Any ideas who we should complain to? Traffic commissioner? First management at head office? The government?
Not sure what the TC is going to do? If First are running their journies they are doing nothing wrong and the Kites have a high standing capacity, so I doubt any are overloaded
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on January 04, 2024, 05:38:30 PMMore & more posts on Facebook and Twitter x about over crowding.. and still nothing seeming to be done about it!
Any ideas who we should complain to? Traffic commissioner? First management at head office? The government?
Sorry but posts on Facebook and Twitter don't achieve anything.
In the first instance, tell First Bus!
https://www.tellfirstbus.com/leicester
Complaints and feedback sent through 'official channels' all get logged, looked at and reported on.
Quote from: Stu on January 04, 2024, 07:14:16 PMSorry but posts on Facebook and Twitter don't achieve anything.
In the first instance, tell First Bus!
https://www.tellfirstbus.com/leicester
Complaints and feedback sent through 'official channels' all get logged, looked at and reported on.
I suspect a lot of Facebook & Twitter posts are actually when the bus is 'full' and they have to actually sit next to someone or stand.
The train I came home on tonight had people moaning about having to stand, yet I could see at least 30 seats just in the carriage I was sat in.
Quote from: Tony on January 04, 2024, 07:25:44 PMI suspect a lot of Facebook & Twitter posts are actually when the bus is 'full' and they have to actually sit next to someone or stand.
The train I came home on tonight had people moaning about having to stand, yet I could see at least 30 seats just in the carriage I was sat in.
Unfortunately the bus was full to the brim.. passengers standing even next to the driver as unfortunately the kites standing capacity has been plucked out of thin air if you ask me. Passengers left at bus stops. I had sent first twitter photographic evidence.. they said they are looking.. but are they?
Thanks.. I've sent a response to Tell First. Whether anything will be done, who knows!
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on January 04, 2024, 10:35:18 PMUnfortunately the bus was full to the brim.. passengers standing even next to the driver as unfortunately the kites standing capacity has been plucked out of thin air if you ask me. Passengers left at bus stops. I had sent first twitter photographic evidence.. they said they are looking.. but are they?
Thanks.. I've sent a response to Tell First. Whether anything will be done, who knows!
I'm not disputing there is buses full and leaving people, but one photograph on X will attract a lot of comments from others claiming there bus was packed as well from buses that didn't leave people.
The standing capacity of buses isn't 'plucked out of thin air ' it is based on the weight carrying capacity of the chassis, hence why 'heavyweight' buses like B7RLEs have a much higher capacity than a lightweight 12m single deck like an E200MMC
Any idea why they've decided to reroute the 14A in Glenfield Hospital?
I see no reason why it is needed.
Twitter says it's just a trial.
But it makes no sense as the new route (trial) adds on extra time? I see only thing maybe is they wanted to add an extra stop (glenfrith way) but it's not needed and not really used..
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on January 09, 2024, 06:53:12 PMAny idea why they've decided to reroute the 14A in Glenfield Hospital?
I see no reason why it is needed.
Twitter says it's just a trial.
But it makes no sense as the new route (trial) adds on extra time? I see only thing maybe is they wanted to add an extra stop (glenfrith way) but it's not needed and not really used.
Could be to allow for alterations to the hospital site in the future
Wasn't a multi storey car park planned for Glenfield not so long back?
I've seen pictures of 63523, the damage is pretty bad and according to my friend who is a mechanic for first leicester it is possible it could be a while as all the panels on one side need replacing and new windows as well.
If the damage is that bad wouldn't it make sense to send it back to Wrights for repair
Looks like 63531 has not been used for 6 weeks has this one been damaged as well ?
Quote from: Mayfield on January 24, 2024, 07:37:33 PMLooks like 63531 has not been used for 6 weeks has this one been damaged as well ?
Yes, was sat next to 63523 undergoing repairs 2 weeks ago
Quote from: Mayfield on January 24, 2024, 07:37:33 PMLooks like 63531 has not been used for 6 weeks has this one been damaged as well ?
63531 is back in service out on the 14 today.
Quote from: Mayfield on January 24, 2024, 07:14:50 PMIf the damage is that bad wouldn't it make sense to send it back to Wrights for repair
That's what I would thought but it's being kept at depot for now.
The 2 streetlites have now left Leicester.
It means all single fleet is now electric Kite. (Although it's thought 2 are not operable), 35179 has temporary gone on loan to Sheffield for a tram replacement.. (seems strange to me, as we are desperate for double deckers!).
With the 2kites off, streetlites gone and a double decker gone my calculations would indicate Leicester will be short of buses on Monday by 1 vehicle? (During peak PVR if you include both BHX3&5)..
Also, makes no sense.. 68 kites & 18 electro Streetdecks - 86 buses.. this also leaves Leicester short - So my guess now is the previous rumours that some of the "Leeds decker batch" may well be transferring.. or will Leicester be short further, or keeping the Streetdecks? Or could we see a service change announced and potentially a drop of another service or reduction in frequency looming?
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on February 18, 2024, 10:23:52 PMThe 2 streetlites have now left Leicester.
It means all single fleet is now electric Kite. (Although it's thought 2 are not operable), 35179 has temporary gone on loan to Sheffield for a tram replacement.. (seems strange to me, as we are desperate for double deckers!).
With the 2kites off, streetlites gone and a double decker gone my calculations would indicate Leicester will be short of buses on Monday by 1 vehicle? (During peak PVR if you include both BHX3&5)..
Also, makes no sense.. 68 kites & 18 electro Streetdecks - 86 buses.. this also leaves Leicester short - So my guess now is the previous rumours that some of the "Leeds decker batch" may well be transferring.. or will Leicester be short further, or keeping the Streetdecks? Or could we see a service change announced and potentially a drop of another service or reduction in frequency looming?
the streetlites were a temporary addition to allow for an uplift of deckers on the BHX5 service over christmas.
A case of waiting and seeing what happens with the double decker side of the fleet.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on February 18, 2024, 10:23:52 PMThe 2 streetlites have now left Leicester.
It means all single fleet is now electric Kite. (Although it's thought 2 are not operable), 3
With the 2kites off,
2 vehicles dead out of a fleet of 68 is not something that is going to cause a problem, most operators allow about 10% of a fleet to be not servicable at any time
Has anyone heard when the electric double deckers are due for Leicester?
Quote from: markcf83 on February 20, 2024, 03:12:53 PMHas anyone heard when the electric double deckers are due for Leicester?
The Leicester Buses website says April, so my guess is May. First already have the charging infrastructure so I doubt there will be any huge delays getting them into service like there is with Arriva.
When driving today I seen a Sheffield branded streetdeck in Leicester with special on the display. Anyone know anything?
Quote from: Pscar05 on February 21, 2024, 08:10:37 PMWhen driving today I seen a Sheffield branded streetdeck in Leicester with special on the display. Anyone know anything?
Rail replacement until the weekend,specifically the trams.
Quote from: markcf83 on February 22, 2024, 03:00:12 PMRail replacement until the weekend,specifically the trams.
That would be 35179 which is a Leicester-branded Streetdeck currently in Sheffield.
Pscar05's post had it the other way round - a Sheffield-branded Streetdeck in Leicester. If that's so, any ideas what that might have been?
Also in Leicester (at least as of yesterday lunchtime) was 63623 Sean heading down Narborough Road with no front registration plate attached.
Possibly on delivery to first south at Hoeford and stopped for a charge at Abbey lane
Quote from: Mayfield on February 22, 2024, 08:54:41 PMPossibly on delivery to first south at Hoeford and stopped for a charge at Abbey lane
Was that one of the kites or a decker bus?
Now 5 visiting buses at Leicester.. presumably for charging / servicing..
2 "mainline" (from Sheffield?), plus 2 electric Streetdecks (Norwich), and 1 ADL Electric Decker demonstrator.
Still no word on the Electric Leicester Streetdecks, other than a small post on Facebook fan page stating that leicesters double decker order might be diverted to Leeds. Maybe the ADL demonstrator is here to trial to replace the order?
Perhaps the electric double deckers are there for type training,if they're different to the single deckers in any way.
EMA B8RLE 69619 BV24 LNN has arrived
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 05, 2024, 10:56:31 AMStill no word on the Electric Leicester Streetdecks, other than a small post on Facebook fan page stating that leicesters double decker order might be diverted to Leeds. Maybe the ADL demonstrator is here to trial to replace the order?
I've heard the opposite that some of Leeds batch MIGHT be coming to Leicester to bolster the double decker fleet.
Here's hoping more deckers are coming to give more capacity to the busy services.
Quote from: SSmith09 on March 06, 2024, 08:41:34 AMI've heard the opposite that some of Leeds batch MIGHT be coming to Leicester to bolster the double decker fleet.
Here's hoping more deckers are coming to give more capacity to the busy services.
Yes I heard this too.. (in fact I posted it here!).
I guess like everything on Facebook.. you need to take everything with a pinch of salt!
Could borrow some of Arriva LOL
2 more white evora just seen heading to Abbey Lane 👍
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 07, 2024, 11:37:34 AM2 more white evora just seen heading to Abbey Lane 👍
5 due 69618-69622
Noticed a First Solent Kite heading south this morning on the M1 in Nottinghamshire and then again a couple of hours later near Beaumont Leys heading towards the M1 so I presume it had called in to Abbey Lane for a charge, it carries a very striking blue livery unlike the bland green we have in Leicester
Quote from: Mayfield on March 07, 2024, 04:33:51 PMNoticed a First Solent Kite heading south this morning on the M1 in Nottinghamshire and then again a couple of hours later near Beaumont Leys heading towards the M1 so I presume it had called in to Abbey Lane for a charge, it carries a very striking blue livery unlike the bland green we have in Leicester
Green is part of Leicester buses! First didn't get a choice. I believe Solent chose blue..
Personally I prefer the first generic electric livery seen in York / Norwich.
All 5 B8RLEs & Solent Kite 63630 at Abbey Lane
The B8's are now branded..
All 5 are white with Purple branding for EMA.. with a reference to First bus on the back.
I saw one yesterday on driver training running along the A50 in Markfield.
The service starts on Sunday.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 15, 2024, 09:07:57 AMThe B8's are now branded..
All 5 are white with Purple branding for EMA.. with a reference to First bus on the back.
I saw one yesterday on driver training running along the A50 in Markfield.
The service starts on Sunday.
Branding very similar to last year and they look very smart
Are they just for internal car park work.
Quote from: Mayfield on March 15, 2024, 11:43:37 AMAre they just for internal car park work.
Yep. They run back and forth mostly from long stay car park through to front arrivals and departures.
Quote from: Glenfieldmathk1 on March 15, 2024, 12:32:54 PMYep. They run back and forth mostly from long stay car park through to front arrivals and departures.
There's also an outstation / garage for 6 vehicles at EMA which is where the vehicles tend to be situated when not in use, and this is also where they fuel (rather than having to run back and forth to Abbey Lane)..
Does anybody know why 63531 hasn't been in service for 5 weeks, this is the one that entered service weeks after all the others and has already had a lengthy time out with what if I am correct was accident damage.
Quote from: Mayfield on March 19, 2024, 01:38:09 PMDoes anybody know why 63531 hasn't been in service for 5 weeks, this is the one that entered service weeks after all the others and has already had a lengthy time out with what if I am correct was accident damage.
I think this one is the troublesome one as when it first entered service it only managed a morning out on the 54 then was taken off.
Although Electroliner demo LY71 GJE is currently parked up at Abbey Lane so hopefully the much needed deckers are due very soon? 🤞
Quote from: SSmith09 on March 20, 2024, 10:52:10 AMI think this one is the troublesome one as when it first entered service it only managed a morning out on the 54 then was taken off.
Although Electroliner demo LY71 GJE is currently parked up at Abbey Lane so hopefully the much needed deckers are due very soon? 🤞
Much needed?
According to first they are replacing the existing double deckers. So it will mean we have less double deckers than at current.. and to be honest, it's not enough. Really still think it should have been 18 singles and 68 doubles!
Still First haven't been able to justify why a like for like order wasn't placed.. last response I got was email the charity "bus users"!!