Does anyone know what happened to the four G-reg Volvo B10M-50 Citybuses owned by Thandi (now Evergreen) Coaches?
I'm asking as I used to travel on them to and from school every day.
I heard from someone who is a relative of the boss of Thandi/Evergreen that they'd been scrapped, but he wasn't sure and I hope he's wrong.
Are Evergreen and Thandi the same company?
Quote from: NXWM Spectra on April 07, 2013, 11:33:22 PM
Are Evergreen and Thandi the same company?
Sort of. How to explain - there was a "red Thandi" and a "blue Thandi" - the blue Thandi had more executive coaches, the red Thandi had lower quality coaches and buses. Their garages were (are) on the same road - Alma Street, in Birmingham. A couple of years back, the red Thandi changed its name to Evergreen Coaches. The blue Thandi remains as Thandi Executive.
Just to clarify they weren't actually called the red and blue Thandi, that's just how I refer to them. They are separate companies as far as I know. It's rather confusing.
Plus you have Bowens which is also part of Thandi
Just to clarify red & blue Thandis owners are all relatives although they do not get on & there is a lot of animosity between the two companies. A couple of years ago Red Thandis was up before the TC & I believe was banned from local service & had a licence curtailment. In order to keep his work & contracts Red Thandis bought Evergreen Coaches who were not subject to these licence conditions.
Red Thandis owners have done this many many times before to get around the TC. They even tried to buy AMPM before realising what a mess Mel Kang had made of it.
I'm really not sure how I feel about Thandi owning the Evergreen and Bowens names, especially as they are trading off Bowens' number of years in the business on the website. Fair enough purchase the name and use it, but it seems a bit cheeky to suggest they've been in the business for 90-odd years when the new owners haven't.
Did't the blue Thandi buy someof the buses from AMPM like the
deckers & some of the single deckers
Quote from: Solo1 on April 08, 2013, 10:35:57 AM
Did't the blue Thandi buy someof the buses from AMPM like the
deckers & some of the single deckers
Yes, 5 were Dart's 'R122 RLY', 'R136 RLY', 'R163 VLA' and Olympian's 'N694 JNO' and 'N731 JNO'. 'N694 JNO' has since been sold again. Don't know if there were more or if these others are still with Thandi. Here's my pictures of those mentioned above
http://www.flickr.com/photos/john-s-91/6302587125/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/john-s-91/6124711580/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/john-s-91/6197950239/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/john-s-91/6990128096/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/john-s-91/6238495474/
i think there was another one now with VIP Contracts & most of the other darts aren't hey with VIP Contracts
Yes VIP have some AMPM Darts & guess who has been seen hanging around VIP's offices
Quote from: Steveminor on April 08, 2013, 07:38:39 AM
Red Thandis owners have done this many many times before to get around the TC. They even tried to buy AMPM before realising what a mess Mel Kang had made of it.
Yes VIP have some AMPM Darts & guess who has been seen hanging around VIP's offices
Another topic, a few more slanderous and personal comments....It's really not the done thing on a public forum?
Those AMPM darts did take a surprising amount of time to shift and I do have tremendous respect for Mel Kang-he was an award winning businessman who set up a good quality operation. Before I say any more about Thandi, can anyone confirm whether or not they ran dash bodied darts on the bristol road under the licence golden line. If they did, I have plenty to say about that company
If they had a depot near Oldbury then I think they did
Quote from: Peter123 on April 08, 2013, 09:38:25 PM
Those AMPM darts did take a surprising amount of time to shift and I do have tremendous respect for Mel Kang-he was an award winning businessman who set up a good quality operation. Before I say any more about Thandi, can anyone confirm whether or not they ran dash bodied darts on the bristol road under the licence golden line. If they did, I have plenty to say about that company
The Thandi family has been associated with many operating names over the years, including Goldenline!
ST Buses, AK Travel, A-Line Buses, City Way Travel, Midland Bus Co, Finesse Coaches, Gold Bus, Goldenline Buses, A2B Buses, J Line, Lynx Solutions, Corporate Express, Coach Express and Evergreen Coaches.
Quote from: andy on April 08, 2013, 08:39:24 PM
Quote from: Steveminor on April 08, 2013, 07:38:39 AM
Red Thandis owners have done this many many times before to get around the TC. They even tried to buy AMPM before realising what a mess Mel Kang had made of it.
Yes VIP have some AMPM Darts & guess who has been seen hanging around VIP's offices
Another topic, a few more slanderous and personal comments....It's really not the done thing on a public forum?
But you can't slander someone with truth....
Quote from: busfan2847 on April 09, 2013, 02:41:18 PM
Quote from: Peter123 on April 08, 2013, 09:38:25 PM
Those AMPM darts did take a surprising amount of time to shift and I do have tremendous respect for Mel Kang-he was an award winning businessman who set up a good quality operation. Before I say any more about Thandi, can anyone confirm whether or not they ran dash bodied darts on the bristol road under the licence golden line. If they did, I have plenty to say about that company
The Thandi family has been associated with many operating names over the years, including Goldenline!
ST Buses, AK Travel, A-Line Buses, City Way Travel, Midland Bus Co, Finesse Coaches, Gold Bus, Goldenline Buses, A2B Buses, J Line, Lynx Solutions, Corporate Express, Coach Express and Evergreen Coaches.
Always thought Midland Bus Co was seperate to Thandi (assuming this is the same company that runs the blue darts in Bradford Place).
Peter its all very good saying you have respect for Mel Kang, however you didn't have to work with him constantly having to clear up his mess. I mean what kind of lawyer when running a business would enter into a contract without signing or even reading it.
Not slander as its the truth.
Quote from: Steveminor on April 09, 2013, 07:20:34 PM
Peter its all very good saying you have respect for Mel Kang, however you didn't have to work with him constantly having to clear up his mess. I mean what kind of lawyer when running a business would enter into a contract without signing or even reading it.
Not slander as its the truth.
Fair enough i dont have rxperience of working with him like you bit you must take your hat off to someone having a go and setting up.their own business
Quote from: Lukeee on April 09, 2013, 05:58:08 PM
Quote from: busfan2847 on April 09, 2013, 02:41:18 PM
The Thandi family has been associated with many operating names over the years, including Goldenline!
ST Buses, AK Travel, A-Line Buses, City Way Travel, Midland Bus Co, Finesse Coaches, Gold Bus, Goldenline Buses, A2B Buses, J Line, Lynx Solutions, Corporate Express, Coach Express and Evergreen Coaches.
Always thought Midland Bus Co was seperate to Thandi (assuming this is the same company that runs the blue darts in Bradford Place).
Midland Bus Co vehicles were all from City Way Limited, which was a Thandi company and who introduced the light blue livery. As Tony said at the time Midland strted "Same buses, same drivers, same address". Midland Bus also had the same directors at Taj Coaches (another short lived Thandi company). Almost certainly related to Thandi!
Quote from: Steveminor on April 09, 2013, 07:20:34 PM
Peter its all very good saying you have respect for Mel Kang, however you didn't have to work with him constantly having to clear up his mess. I mean what kind of lawyer when running a business would enter into a contract without signing or even reading it.
Not slander as its the truth.
Truth or not, it's unprofessional and lacks class to badmouth someone by name on a forum when they aren't available to defend themselves.
Quote from: busfan2847 on April 09, 2013, 08:42:29 PM
Quote from: Lukeee on April 09, 2013, 05:58:08 PM
Quote from: busfan2847 on April 09, 2013, 02:41:18 PM
The Thandi family has been associated with many operating names over the years, including Goldenline!
ST Buses, AK Travel, A-Line Buses, City Way Travel, Midland Bus Co, Finesse Coaches, Gold Bus, Goldenline Buses, A2B Buses, J Line, Lynx Solutions, Corporate Express, Coach Express and Evergreen Coaches.
Always thought Midland Bus Co was seperate to Thandi (assuming this is the same company that runs the blue darts in Bradford Place).
Midland Bus Co vehicles were all from City Way Limited, which was a Thandi company and who introduced the light blue livery. As Tony said at the time Midland strted "Same buses, same drivers, same address". Midland Bus also had the same directors at Taj Coaches (another short lived Thandi company). Almost certainly related to Thandi!
Add MBC1, Transol & Rest & Ride to the Thandi bus companies in the West Midlands.
Oh but he is a member of the forum I just can't remember his screen name.
Peter I have full respect for his father as he was the one who set up AMPM & risked & lost his money. But how can you respect someone who squanders their parents money.
Back on subject I think it is completely wrong that a company can keep changing its identity to
A, escape from the clutches of the TC
B, attract new business by fooling people into thinking they are using someone who is not to they first appear to be.
In the case of the later ok so on Bowens website it doess say they are part of Evergreen Coaches, but why not come clean and say "part of Thandi Coaches"
The four services to Hagley operated by Evergreen will keep the same route numbers (HC1-4) as when operated by TGB, and will retain the same lines of route and corresponding timetables.
All four services will be operated by 85-seat double decker buses (not coaches), and will be available to the general public.
Wonder where the deckers will come from
Quote from: Lukeee on October 24, 2013, 10:24:41 PM
Wonder where the deckers will come from
The ex Lothian Olympians they already own are 81 seaters with dual door. If the centre door was removed they would be 85 seaters
Quote from: Tony on October 24, 2013, 10:38:15 PM
Quote from: Lukeee on October 24, 2013, 10:24:41 PM
Wonder where the deckers will come from
The ex Lothian Olympians they already own are 81 seaters with dual door. If the centre door was removed they would be 85 seaters
The addition of 4 extra seats is important, as there must be a certain number of spare seats available on each route (i.e. seats surplus to the number of registered pass holders) in order for Centro to allow it to operate as a public service, and therefore to be eligible for subsidy
On Hagley services this morning
SUI 6581 (Spectra)
SUI 6584 (Spectra)
RUI 2058 (Alexander-bodied Olympian)
IIG 6391 (Alexander-bodied Olympian - branded for South Wolverhampton Academy)
Just to confirm the Spectras have ZF gearboxes and sound fantastic.
One thing that struck me is that SUI 6584 is originally a K-reg Spectra, making it 21 years old. I was under the impression that, as of September 2013, operators cannot use vehicles over 20 years old on school services. This was the main reason why TGB withdrew their Metrobuses.
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 04, 2013, 01:56:20 PM
On Hagley services this morning
SUI 6581 (Spectra)
SUI 6584 (Spectra)
RUI 2058 (Alexander-bodied Olympian)
IIG 6391 (Alexander-bodied Olympian - branded for South Wolverhampton Academy)
Just to confirm the Spectras have ZF gearboxes and sound fantastic.
One thing that struck me is that SUI 6584 is originally a K-reg Spectra, making it 21 years old. I was under the impression that, as of September 2013, operators cannot use vehicles over 20 years old on school services. This was the main reason why TGB withdrew their Metrobuses.
So not all 85 seaters either?
Quote from: Tony on November 04, 2013, 02:21:09 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 04, 2013, 01:56:20 PM
On Hagley services this morning
SUI 6581 (Spectra)
SUI 6584 (Spectra)
RUI 2058 (Alexander-bodied Olympian)
IIG 6391 (Alexander-bodied Olympian - branded for South Wolverhampton Academy)
Just to confirm the Spectras have ZF gearboxes and sound fantastic.
One thing that struck me is that SUI 6584 is originally a K-reg Spectra, making it 21 years old. I was under the impression that, as of September 2013, operators cannot use vehicles over 20 years old on school services. This was the main reason why TGB withdrew their Metrobuses.
So not all 85 seaters either?
There is no restriction (other than contractual) on the age of a vehicle used on school services. The DDA deadline for operating deckers on registered local routes is 1st January 2017
This afternoon
SUI 6581
SUI 6582 (branded for South Wolverhampton Academy)
SUI 6584
R831 MFR (East Lancs Olympian, still in previous operator's livery)
This morning
SUI 6581
SUI 6584
SUI 6585
and an Alexander Olympian
This afternoon
R830 MFR
R838 MFR
and two Spectras
Of the 16 journeys so far, only 3 have been operated by the high capacity Alexander Olympians which were supposed to be used on the Hagley services.
Think the 'MFR' in the new Olympians' registrations stands for Might Fail Regularly
They really are terrible buses. 838 has cut out at least four times so far, refusing to start again for a while. Then 830 on the HC3 today kept failing on the way out of Hagley, until it gave up the ghost properly in Hayley Green. Apparently Spectra SUI 6584 had to come and rescue the kids
Whats the relationship with Dhillion coaches of London and thandi's? I think its a brother who owns them? plus the logo is same as thandi and same type of vehicles too!
Also whats the relationship between thandis and NPC & New Barrat coaches??
There is no relationship between Thandi & new Bharat. The latter are more linked with Rai coaches on Stratford rd. both of them hate Thandis & compete with them quite veciferously on the express network. I remember when I worked for rai & there was a big arguement that envolved tge police being called when a Thandi coach pulled into rais depot to "poach passengers" & was locked in. A similar thing happened in Southall
R838 MFR completely packed up on Huntingtree Road in Halesowen this afternoon. Absolute piece of junk. Waited half an hour for IIG 6393 to come and take over, much much better bus.
Apparently another of the East Lancs Olympians failed this afternoon somewhere else.
Evergreen have had over 20 breakdowns this week. I won't go into details, but it turns out it wasn't really the Olympians at fault
Also, I went down to the garage in Smethwick this evening, noticed three ALX200 Darts parked up:
R823 HCD
R935 FOO
S929 PDD
All in Stagecoach livery and all have dot matrix displays
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 08, 2013, 07:28:59 PM
Evergreen have had over 20 breakdowns this week. I won't go into details, but it turns out it wasn't really the Olympians at fault.
So not a perfect first week then. How many were operated with the 85 seaters that you were meant to be getting?
Quote from: NXWM Spectra on November 08, 2013, 09:01:02 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 08, 2013, 07:28:59 PM
Evergreen have had over 20 breakdowns this week. I won't go into details, but it turns out it wasn't really the Olympians at fault.
So not a perfect first week then. How many were operated with the 85 seaters that you were meant to be getting?
The 85 seaters still have 81 seats, and out of the 40 journeys this week, only about 5-6 were operated by them, the most common vehicles have been the 72-seat East Lancs Olympians
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 08, 2013, 07:28:59 PM
Evergreen have had over 20 breakdowns this week. I won't go into details, but it turns out it wasn't really the Olympians at fault
Also, I went down to the garage in Smethwick this evening, noticed three ALX200 Darts parked up:
R823 HCD
R935 FOO
S929 PDD
All in Stagecoach livery and all have dot matrix displays
Suddenly Greenbus sounds like good value!
Quote from: gac_uk on November 08, 2013, 11:45:29 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 08, 2013, 07:28:59 PM
Evergreen have had over 20 breakdowns this week. I won't go into details, but it turns out it wasn't really the Olympians at fault
Also, I went down to the garage in Smethwick this evening, noticed three ALX200 Darts parked up:
R823 HCD
R935 FOO
S929 PDD
All in Stagecoach livery and all have dot matrix displays
Suddenly Greenbus sounds like good value!
Suddenly the bus+train looks like good value.
I have been told Evergreen are returning the 4 East Lancs Olympians to the Isle of Wight and 8 low floor Y-reg double decker buses have been bought from London (presumably Tridents). The first one has already arrived and was apparently on the St Pauls services today.
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 05:36:42 PM
I have been told Evergreen are returning the 4 East Lancs Olympians to the Isle of Wight and 8 low floor Y-reg double decker buses have been bought from London (presumably Tridents). The first one has already arrived and was apparently on the St Pauls services today.
So still no 85 seaters?
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 05:36:42 PM
I have been told Evergreen are returning the 4 East Lancs Olympians to the Isle of Wight and 8 low floor Y-reg double decker buses have been bought from London (presumably Tridents). The first one has already arrived and was apparently on the St Pauls services today.
The East Lancs Olympian's came from Ensign http://www.ensignbus.com/volvo-olympian-1998.html
Quote from: Dylan4579 on November 11, 2013, 05:43:13 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 05:36:42 PM
I have been told Evergreen are returning the 4 East Lancs Olympians to the Isle of Wight and 8 low floor Y-reg double decker buses have been bought from London (presumably Tridents). The first one has already arrived and was apparently on the St Pauls services today.
So still no 85 seaters?
No. The 81 seaters are staying of course, but are spending most of their time off the Hagleys, presumably serving the Wolverhampton school they're branded for. They should be allocated to the Hagley services, but you know what Thandi are like...
Quote from: Winston on November 11, 2013, 05:46:41 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 05:36:42 PM
I have been told Evergreen are returning the 4 East Lancs Olympians to the Isle of Wight and 8 low floor Y-reg double decker buses have been bought from London (presumably Tridents). The first one has already arrived and was apparently on the St Pauls services today.
The East Lancs Olympian's came from Ensign http://www.ensignbus.com/volvo-olympian-1998.html
The price they paid was £3k each, did they not think they had such a low price tag for a reason...
I think they are doing a part exchange with Ensign for the 8 Tridents
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 05:50:07 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 11, 2013, 05:46:41 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 05:36:42 PM
I have been told Evergreen are returning the 4 East Lancs Olympians to the Isle of Wight and 8 low floor Y-reg double decker buses have been bought from London (presumably Tridents). The first one has already arrived and was apparently on the St Pauls services today.
The East Lancs Olympian's came from Ensign http://www.ensignbus.com/volvo-olympian-1998.html
The price they paid was £3k each, did they not think they had such a low price tag for a reason...
I think they are doing a part exchange with Ensign for the 8 Tridents
Exactly! You get what you pay for in this world.......
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 05:36:42 PM
I have been told Evergreen are returning the 4 East Lancs Olympians to the Isle of Wight and 8 low floor Y-reg double decker buses have been bought from London (presumably Tridents). The first one has already arrived and was apparently on the St Pauls services today.
I saw a Thandi bus on Dudley Road and it was an ex London president PVL176
Quote from: OH25 on November 11, 2013, 07:49:01 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 05:36:42 PM
I have been told Evergreen are returning the 4 East Lancs Olympians to the Isle of Wight and 8 low floor Y-reg double decker buses have been bought from London (presumably Tridents). The first one has already arrived and was apparently on the St Pauls services today.
I saw a Thandi bus on Dudley Road and it was an ex London president PVL176
Thanks for that.
B7TLs then, great ::)
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 07:52:19 PM
Quote from: OH25 on November 11, 2013, 07:49:01 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 05:36:42 PM
I have been told Evergreen are returning the 4 East Lancs Olympians to the Isle of Wight and 8 low floor Y-reg double decker buses have been bought from London (presumably Tridents). The first one has already arrived and was apparently on the St Pauls services today.
I saw a Thandi bus on Dudley Road and it was an ex London president PVL176
Thanks for that.
B7TLs then, great ::)
64 seaters if they retain dual door format
Quote from: Winston on November 11, 2013, 08:00:01 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 07:52:19 PM
Quote from: OH25 on November 11, 2013, 07:49:01 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 05:36:42 PM
I have been told Evergreen are returning the 4 East Lancs Olympians to the Isle of Wight and 8 low floor Y-reg double decker buses have been bought from London (presumably Tridents). The first one has already arrived and was apparently on the St Pauls services today.
I saw a Thandi bus on Dudley Road and it was an ex London president PVL176
Thanks for that.
B7TLs then, great ::)
64 seaters if they retain dual door format
I am slightly confused by something it says, that single door conversion could add 11 seats
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 08:04:48 PM
I am slightly confused by something it says, that single door conversion could add 11 seats
Most ex London buses have buggy zones opposite the rear door, these Presidents look like they have.
If these are only used on school services, the buggy zone could be filled with seats. Plus where the door was on the nearside. You may be able to get 2 rows on the drivers side, and 2, maybe 3 rows of seats on the nearside
Quote from: John on November 11, 2013, 08:15:42 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 08:04:48 PM
I am slightly confused by something it says, that single door conversion could add 11 seats
Most ex London buses have buggy zones opposite the rear door, these Presidents look like they have.
If these are only used on school services, the buggy zone could be filled with seats. Plus where the door was on the nearside. You may be able to get 2 rows on the drivers side, and 2, maybe 3 rows of seats on the nearside
Buggy zone, that explains it, thanks John :)
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 08:04:48 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 11, 2013, 08:00:01 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 07:52:19 PM
Quote from: OH25 on November 11, 2013, 07:49:01 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 11, 2013, 05:36:42 PM
I have been told Evergreen are returning the 4 East Lancs Olympians to the Isle of Wight and 8 low floor Y-reg double decker buses have been bought from London (presumably Tridents). The first one has already arrived and was apparently on the St Pauls services today.
I saw a Thandi bus on Dudley Road and it was an ex London president PVL176
Thanks for that.
B7TLs then, great ::)
64 seaters if they retain dual door format
I am slightly confused by something it says, that single door conversion could add 11 seats
They were new as H41/23D (64). Most had the three tip up seats removed for use in London making them H41/20D. Ensign are advertising them as 64 seat dual door, so with the tip ups reinstated or 71 seat single door, so only 7 extra seats.
A new Olympian has appeared on Hagley services today, R845 MFR. I thought someone said they only bought 4 East Lancs Olympians but clearly not
830, 831, 838, 841, 845 seen so far
Also the new B7TL is out on the St Paul's services daily with the others due soon
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 14, 2013, 07:31:38 PM
A new Olympian has appeared on Hagley services today, R845 MFR. I thought someone said they only bought 4 East Lancs Olympians but clearly not
830, 831, 838, 841, 845 seen so far
Also the new B7TL is out on the St Paul's services daily with the others due soon
The Ensign Oct sales list said he only bought 4
Quote from: Winston on November 14, 2013, 07:33:39 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 14, 2013, 07:31:38 PM
A new Olympian has appeared on Hagley services today, R845 MFR. I thought someone said they only bought 4 East Lancs Olympians but clearly not
830, 831, 838, 841, 845 seen so far
Also the new B7TL is out on the St Paul's services daily with the others due soon
The Ensign Oct sales list said he only bought 4
I asked a driver who said they had 6 or 7 of them. They're all going back soon though
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 14, 2013, 07:35:16 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 14, 2013, 07:33:39 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 14, 2013, 07:31:38 PM
A new Olympian has appeared on Hagley services today, R845 MFR. I thought someone said they only bought 4 East Lancs Olympians but clearly not
830, 831, 838, 841, 845 seen so far
Also the new B7TL is out on the St Paul's services daily with the others due soon
The Ensign Oct sales list said he only bought 4
I asked a driver who said they had 6 or 7 of them. They're all going back soon though
We'll have to wait until early Dec for Ross @ ensign to post the Nov sales
Quote from: Winston on November 14, 2013, 07:46:28 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 14, 2013, 07:35:16 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 14, 2013, 07:33:39 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 14, 2013, 07:31:38 PM
A new Olympian has appeared on Hagley services today, R845 MFR. I thought someone said they only bought 4 East Lancs Olympians but clearly not
830, 831, 838, 841, 845 seen so far
Also the new B7TL is out on the St Paul's services daily with the others due soon
The Ensign Oct sales list said he only bought 4
I asked a driver who said they had 6 or 7 of them. They're all going back soon though
We'll have to wait until early Dec for Ross @ ensign to post the Nov sales
Y176 NLK is another B7 that has been seen
Quote from: Tony on November 14, 2013, 08:02:39 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 14, 2013, 07:46:28 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 14, 2013, 07:35:16 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 14, 2013, 07:33:39 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 14, 2013, 07:31:38 PM
A new Olympian has appeared on Hagley services today, R845 MFR. I thought someone said they only bought 4 East Lancs Olympians but clearly not
830, 831, 838, 841, 845 seen so far
Also the new B7TL is out on the St Paul's services daily with the others due soon
The Ensign Oct sales list said he only bought 4
I asked a driver who said they had 6 or 7 of them. They're all going back soon though
We'll have to wait until early Dec for Ross @ ensign to post the Nov sales
Y176 NLK is another B7 that has been seen
That is the only B7TL that has arrived so far
Sorry, I thought someone had seen an X reg one as well. I haven't spoken to Mr Thandi for a couple of years. Catch him on a good day and he is really helpful, other days you just get told to clear off when you visit Alma Street.
Twice he has given me full access to the depot to find what vehicles he has and photograph the scrappers, but other days it is a 'go away'
I am interested in your sighting of Y176 NLK. Looking back, somebody reported a sighting of PVL176, which is indeed an X-reg. However, I have been told only one B7TL has arrived so far, and was told it is a Y-reg. The number 176 being in both reported vehicles seems too large a coincidence as well
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 14, 2013, 10:23:22 PM
I am interested in your sighting of Y176 NLK. Looking back, somebody reported a sighting of PVL176, which is indeed an X-reg. However, I have been told only one B7TL has arrived so far, and was told it is a Y-reg. The number 176 being in both reported vehicles seems too large a coincidence as well
I suspect it's a mis-report or a typo. Y176NLK was VPL176 with Metroline, whilst the PVL176 was an X-reg from Go-Ahead London
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 14, 2013, 10:23:22 PM
I am interested in your sighting of Y176 NLK. Looking back, somebody reported a sighting of PVL176, which is indeed an X-reg. However, I have been told only one B7TL has arrived so far, and was told it is a Y-reg. The number 176 being in both reported vehicles seems too large a coincidence as well
Y176 NLK was VPL176 with Metroline
PVL176 is X576 EGK ex Go-Ahead
The sighting I have was by registration, so I suspect it is VPL176 not PVL176
Just an update, I have been told more B7TLs (adding to the 1 already in service) are due any time now, look out for them appearing on the St. Pauls and the Hagley services sometime soon.
The allocation of the Hagley routes is now 100% the East Lancs Volvo Olympians, which are just too small, with people standing particularly in the morning. Thandi simply can't register these as public bus routes as the vehicles used are not suitable, so they are not going to be able to sustain the pass prices past this year unless they get the ex Lothian Olympians on there
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 02:26:43 PM
Just an update, I have been told more B7TLs (adding to the 1 already in service) are due any time now, look out for them appearing on the St. Pauls and the Hagley services sometime soon.
The allocation of the Hagley routes is now 100% the East Lancs Volvo Olympians, which are just too small, with people standing particularly in the morning. Thandi simply can't register these as public bus routes as the vehicles used are not suitable, so they are not going to be able to sustain the pass prices past this year unless they get the ex Lothian Olympians on there
I thought you said that the Olympian/East Lancs were being returned to Ensign and replaced by the B7TL's? Is that still happening once sufficient B7TL arrive?
Quote from: Winston on November 26, 2013, 03:10:20 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 02:26:43 PM
Just an update, I have been told more B7TLs (adding to the 1 already in service) are due any time now, look out for them appearing on the St. Pauls and the Hagley services sometime soon.
The allocation of the Hagley routes is now 100% the East Lancs Volvo Olympians, which are just too small, with people standing particularly in the morning. Thandi simply can't register these as public bus routes as the vehicles used are not suitable, so they are not going to be able to sustain the pass prices past this year unless they get the ex Lothian Olympians on there
I thought you said that the Olympian/East Lancs were being returned to Ensign and replaced by the B7TL's? Is that still happening once sufficient B7TL arrive?
Yes that is the plan, once the B7TLs arrive. The B7TLs will still have nowhere near enough seats though!
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 06:19:24 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 26, 2013, 03:10:20 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 02:26:43 PM
Just an update, I have been told more B7TLs (adding to the 1 already in service) are due any time now, look out for them appearing on the St. Pauls and the Hagley services sometime soon.
The allocation of the Hagley routes is now 100% the East Lancs Volvo Olympians, which are just too small, with people standing particularly in the morning. Thandi simply can't register these as public bus routes as the vehicles used are not suitable, so they are not going to be able to sustain the pass prices past this year unless they get the ex Lothian Olympians on there
I thought you said that the Olympian/East Lancs were being returned to Ensign and replaced by the B7TL's? Is that still happening once sufficient B7TL arrive?
Yes that is the plan, once the B7TLs arrive. The B7TLs will still have nowhere near enough seats though!
The one that is on St Paul's is single door
Quote from: Dylan4579 on November 27, 2013, 08:17:23 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 06:19:24 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 26, 2013, 03:10:20 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 02:26:43 PM
Just an update, I have been told more B7TLs (adding to the 1 already in service) are due any time now, look out for them appearing on the St. Pauls and the Hagley services sometime soon.
The allocation of the Hagley routes is now 100% the East Lancs Volvo Olympians, which are just too small, with people standing particularly in the morning. Thandi simply can't register these as public bus routes as the vehicles used are not suitable, so they are not going to be able to sustain the pass prices past this year unless they get the ex Lothian Olympians on there
I thought you said that the Olympian/East Lancs were being returned to Ensign and replaced by the B7TL's? Is that still happening once sufficient B7TL arrive?
Yes that is the plan, once the B7TLs arrive. The B7TLs will still have nowhere near enough seats though!
The one that is on St Paul's is single door
Still not enough seats. 80 seat buses are needed for the Hagley services.
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 27, 2013, 08:18:28 PM
Quote from: Dylan4579 on November 27, 2013, 08:17:23 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 06:19:24 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 26, 2013, 03:10:20 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 02:26:43 PM
Just an update, I have been told more B7TLs (adding to the 1 already in service) are due any time now, look out for them appearing on the St. Pauls and the Hagley services sometime soon.
The allocation of the Hagley routes is now 100% the East Lancs Volvo Olympians, which are just too small, with people standing particularly in the morning. Thandi simply can't register these as public bus routes as the vehicles used are not suitable, so they are not going to be able to sustain the pass prices past this year unless they get the ex Lothian Olympians on there
I thought you said that the Olympian/East Lancs were being returned to Ensign and replaced by the B7TL's? Is that still happening once sufficient B7TL arrive?
Yes that is the plan, once the B7TLs arrive. The B7TLs will still have nowhere near enough seats though!
The one that is on St Paul's is single door
Still not enough seats. 80 seat buses are needed for the Hagley services.
It makes you wonder why Thandi didn't buy some of these instead, no single door conversion required, only slightly older but can seat 80+
http://www.ensignbus.com/volvo-b7tl-2000-2.html
Quote from: Winston on November 27, 2013, 08:21:44 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 27, 2013, 08:18:28 PM
Quote from: Dylan4579 on November 27, 2013, 08:17:23 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 06:19:24 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 26, 2013, 03:10:20 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 02:26:43 PM
Just an update, I have been told more B7TLs (adding to the 1 already in service) are due any time now, look out for them appearing on the St. Pauls and the Hagley services sometime soon.
The allocation of the Hagley routes is now 100% the East Lancs Volvo Olympians, which are just too small, with people standing particularly in the morning. Thandi simply can't register these as public bus routes as the vehicles used are not suitable, so they are not going to be able to sustain the pass prices past this year unless they get the ex Lothian Olympians on there
I thought you said that the Olympian/East Lancs were being returned to Ensign and replaced by the B7TL's? Is that still happening once sufficient B7TL arrive?
Yes that is the plan, once the B7TLs arrive. The B7TLs will still have nowhere near enough seats though!
The one that is on St Paul's is single door
Still not enough seats. 80 seat buses are needed for the Hagley services.
It makes you wonder why Thandi didn't buy some of these instead, no single door conversion required, only slightly older but can seat 80+
http://www.ensignbus.com/volvo-b7tl-2000-2.html
You'll probably find they've already been sold, Ensign seem to have a habit of not updating their website, the Olympians are still listed
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 27, 2013, 08:28:58 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 27, 2013, 08:21:44 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 27, 2013, 08:18:28 PM
Quote from: Dylan4579 on November 27, 2013, 08:17:23 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 06:19:24 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 26, 2013, 03:10:20 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 02:26:43 PM
Just an update, I have been told more B7TLs (adding to the 1 already in service) are due any time now, look out for them appearing on the St. Pauls and the Hagley services sometime soon.
The allocation of the Hagley routes is now 100% the East Lancs Volvo Olympians, which are just too small, with people standing particularly in the morning. Thandi simply can't register these as public bus routes as the vehicles used are not suitable, so they are not going to be able to sustain the pass prices past this year unless they get the ex Lothian Olympians on there
I thought you said that the Olympian/East Lancs were being returned to Ensign and replaced by the B7TL's? Is that still happening once sufficient B7TL arrive?
Yes that is the plan, once the B7TLs arrive. The B7TLs will still have nowhere near enough seats though!
The one that is on St Paul's is single door
Still not enough seats. 80 seat buses are needed for the Hagley services.
It makes you wonder why Thandi didn't buy some of these instead, no single door conversion required, only slightly older but can seat 80+
http://www.ensignbus.com/volvo-b7tl-2000-2.html
You'll probably find they've already been sold, Ensign seem to have a habit of not updating their website, the Olympians are still listed
I dunno, I'm pretty sure Dublin Bus were originally advertising for bids for taking 100 of them off their hands
Quote from: Winston on November 27, 2013, 08:48:30 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 27, 2013, 08:28:58 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 27, 2013, 08:21:44 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 27, 2013, 08:18:28 PM
Quote from: Dylan4579 on November 27, 2013, 08:17:23 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 06:19:24 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 26, 2013, 03:10:20 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 02:26:43 PM
Just an update, I have been told more B7TLs (adding to the 1 already in service) are due any time now, look out for them appearing on the St. Pauls and the Hagley services sometime soon.
The allocation of the Hagley routes is now 100% the East Lancs Volvo Olympians, which are just too small, with people standing particularly in the morning. Thandi simply can't register these as public bus routes as the vehicles used are not suitable, so they are not going to be able to sustain the pass prices past this year unless they get the ex Lothian Olympians on there
I thought you said that the Olympian/East Lancs were being returned to Ensign and replaced by the B7TL's? Is that still happening once sufficient B7TL arrive?
Yes that is the plan, once the B7TLs arrive. The B7TLs will still have nowhere near enough seats though!
The one that is on St Paul's is single door
Still not enough seats. 80 seat buses are needed for the Hagley services.
It makes you wonder why Thandi didn't buy some of these instead, no single door conversion required, only slightly older but can seat 80+
http://www.ensignbus.com/volvo-b7tl-2000-2.html
You'll probably find they've already been sold, Ensign seem to have a habit of not updating their website, the Olympians are still listed
I dunno, I'm pretty sure Dublin Bus were originally advertising for bids for taking 100 of them off their hands
Ah, I didn't realise that.
I wish I could phone Ensign up as I would be fascinated to hear what they have in stock!
Do you think they'd reply to an email from a curious enthusiast?
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 27, 2013, 09:01:29 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 27, 2013, 08:48:30 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 27, 2013, 08:28:58 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 27, 2013, 08:21:44 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 27, 2013, 08:18:28 PM
Quote from: Dylan4579 on November 27, 2013, 08:17:23 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 06:19:24 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 26, 2013, 03:10:20 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 26, 2013, 02:26:43 PM
Just an update, I have been told more B7TLs (adding to the 1 already in service) are due any time now, look out for them appearing on the St. Pauls and the Hagley services sometime soon.
The allocation of the Hagley routes is now 100% the East Lancs Volvo Olympians, which are just too small, with people standing particularly in the morning. Thandi simply can't register these as public bus routes as the vehicles used are not suitable, so they are not going to be able to sustain the pass prices past this year unless they get the ex Lothian Olympians on there
I thought you said that the Olympian/East Lancs were being returned to Ensign and replaced by the B7TL's? Is that still happening once sufficient B7TL arrive?
Yes that is the plan, once the B7TLs arrive. The B7TLs will still have nowhere near enough seats though!
The one that is on St Paul's is single door
Still not enough seats. 80 seat buses are needed for the Hagley services.
It makes you wonder why Thandi didn't buy some of these instead, no single door conversion required, only slightly older but can seat 80+
http://www.ensignbus.com/volvo-b7tl-2000-2.html
You'll probably find they've already been sold, Ensign seem to have a habit of not updating their website, the Olympians are still listed
I dunno, I'm pretty sure Dublin Bus were originally advertising for bids for taking 100 of them off their hands
Ah, I didn't realise that.
I wish I could phone Ensign up as I would be fascinated to hear what they have in stock!
Do you think they'd reply to an email from a curious enthusiast?
I would have thought so as they seem pretty enthusiast friendly
I've heard it's this weekend for the B7TL arrivals, but don't take it as gospel
Given that Ross Newman publishes the ins and outs every month, and is very accommodating in replying to any queries raised, I would suggest it would be rather inconsiderate to make further demands on his time.
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 28, 2013, 10:42:51 AM
I've heard it's this weekend for the B7TL arrivals, but don't take it as gospel
Ross has posted Ensign Nov moves already, it seems only 4 are due at the moment:
Volvo B7TL's Y167 / 168 / 176 / 236 : Evergreen Coaches, Birmingham .
Winston, where can I see the posts of what Ross has bought and sold?
Cheers
Quote from: BN on November 30, 2013, 10:38:15 AM
Winston, where can I see the posts of what Ross has bought and sold?
Cheers
BN,
If you register yourself on the UK Bus Fleetnews on Yahoo Groups, you'll be able to read them each month as Ross posts the logs:
http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/uk-bus-fleetnews/info?yguid=59401784
Here's Nov list for you & anyone interested:
Hello one and all....
Latest happenings at Purfleet in November:
VEHICLES IN.
From Stagecoach Highlands : Neoplans TSV778 / 780 / 781 Volvo B10MA's 127ASV / 128ASV CSU920. These plates will all be retained by Stagecoach. Volvo B10M's S808BTT S662JSE
From Peterborough Council : Solo's MX08MZD / MZE.
From Hanson's Buses : Enviro 200's BX58BEY / BFA.
From Premiere Buses : MAN's FJ09NZK / PXO.
From Dreadnought Buses : RML2732 RML2528 Bristol FLF MVX878C Leyland PD2 PRN761 Olympian A146OFR Bristol FS XSL228A.
From Eastonways : Trident V140MEV.
From Dublin Bus : Volvo B7TL's 00-D-40020 / 21 / 71 / 83 / 84 / 88 / 97 00-D-D70104 / 131 / 132 / 133 / 134.
From Mike Fuller : RML2350.
From Stagecoach South : Volvo B10M P834FVU.
From Stagecoach East Scotland : Olympians R138 / 140EVX.
From Stagecoach NE : Olympians R831 / 835OVN.
From Premiere Travel : MAN's FJ09NZK / PXO.
From Go-Ahead NE : Darts NA52AWM / AWN / AWO DAF's S865ONL / R975FNW.
From Beestons Coaches : Merc 814 EIG1357.
VEHICLES OUT.
Darts LG02FFP / FGO / FFR : Tower Transit, London .
Volvo B7TL SK52MKV : Uno Buses, Hatfield.
Volvo B7TL X576EGK : Ridleys Coaches, Kenilworth.
Darts LG02 FGZ / FGU / FGC / FFM : City Sprinter, Glasgow.
Tridents X342 / 357NNO : New Adventure, Cardiff.
Volvo B10M X48CNY : Lewis Travel, Greenwich.
Volvo B7TL X657LLX : Holloway Coaches, Scunthorpe.
Solo SH51MHU : St Ives Bus Company.
Dart SK02XGV : DJ Thomas Coaches, Neath.
Dart GX04AZA : Wexford Bus Co, Wexford, Eire .
Volvo B7TL's Y167 / 168 / 176 / 236 : Evergreen Coaches, Birmingham .
Volvo B7TL X649LLX Merc EIG1357 : Galleon Travel, Harlow.
Volvo B7TL SK52MPU : Redline Buses, Aylesbury.
Trident LN51KYH : Z and S Coaches, Aylesbury.
Dart AE54HYX : Watts Coaches, Bonvilston, Wales .
Darts X953VAP N241EWC : Xelabus, Eastleigh , Hants.
Olympian R843MFR : Hawkes Coaches, Derby .
Volvo B10M P834FVU : Pikes Coaches, Andover , Hants.
Olympians R138 / 140EVX R831 / 835OVN : Drew Wilson Coach Sales, Glasgow.
Volvo B10M R650LSO : Geoff Ripley, Barnsley .
Dart AE54HYW : Aimees Travel, Leek, Staffs.
Bristol FLF MVX878C : Julian Patterson, Hunstanton, Norfolk .
Tridents Y366 / 367NHK : Golden Tours , London .
Volvo B7R's YN05XZK / XZS : Dawson Rentals, Milton Keynes .
Volvo B7R YX60BZU Plaxton Primo BU08ACV : Swallow Coaches, Rainham.
Darts LG02FGA / FFK : Reading Buses.
ENSIGN FLEET.
Dart 774 written off in RTA and towed away for scrap by insurance company, final destination unknown.
RCL2220, Metrobus KYV233X and Northern Routemaster FPT590C all sold to Stephensons of Essex.
That's it.
Ross.
Reply
PD0000154/29 - EVERGREEN COACHES LTD, THE COACH DEPOT, ALMA STREET, SMETHWICK, B66 2RL
Registration Accepted by SN
Starting Point: Yardley
Finish Point: Edgbaston, St Paul's School for Girls
Via:
Service Number: SP1
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 04-NOV-2013
Other Details: School days only.
PD0000154/30 - EVERGREEN COACHES LTD, THE COACH DEPOT, ALMA STREET, SMETHWICK, B66 2RL
Registration Accepted by SN
Starting Point: Rubery
Finish Point: Edgbaston, St Paul's School for Girls
Via:
Service Number: SP2
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 04-NOV-2013
Other Details: School days only.
PD0000154/31 - EVERGREEN COACHES LTD, THE COACH DEPOT, ALMA STREET, SMETHWICK, B66 2RL
Registration Accepted by SN
Starting Point: Castle Bromwich
Finish Point: Edgbaston, St Paul's School for Girls
Via:
Service Number: SP3
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 04-NOV-2013
Other Details: School days only.
PD0000154/32 - EVERGREEN COACHES LTD, THE COACH DEPOT, ALMA STREET, SMETHWICK, B66 2RL
Registration Accepted by SN
Starting Point: Bridgenorth
Finish Point: Stourbridge
Via:
Service Number: KEC1
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 04-NOV-2013
Other Details: School days.
PD0000154/33 - EVERGREEN COACHES LTD, THE COACH DEPOT, ALMA STREET, SMETHWICK, B66 2RL
Registration Accepted by SN
Starting Point: Smethwick
Finish Point: Hockley
Via:
Service Number: NS2
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 04-NOV-2013
Other Details: School days only.
PD0000154/34 - EVERGREEN COACHES LTD, THE COACH DEPOT, ALMA STREET, SMETHWICK, B66 2RL
Registration Accepted by SN
Starting Point: Smethwick
Finish Point: Hagley Catholic High School
Via:
Service Number: HC1
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 04-NOV-2013
Other Details: School days.
PD0000154/35 - EVERGREEN COACHES LTD, THE COACH DEPOT, ALMA STREET, SMETHWICK, B66 2RL
Registration Accepted by SN
Starting Point: HC2
Finish Point: Smethwick
Via: Hagley Catholic High School
Service Number: 35
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 04-NOV-2013
Other Details: School days.
PD0000154/36 - EVERGREEN COACHES LTD, THE COACH DEPOT, ALMA STREET, SMETHWICK, B66 2RL
Registration Accepted by SN
Starting Point: Smethwick
Finish Point: Hagley Catholic High School
Via:
Service Number: HC3
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 04-NOV-2013
Other Details: School days.
PD0000154/37 - EVERGREEN COACHES LTD, THE COACH DEPOT, ALMA STREET, SMETHWICK, B66 2RL
Registration Accepted by SN
Starting Point: Smethwick
Finish Point: Hagley Catholic College
Via:
Service Number: HC4
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 04-NOV-2013
Other Details: School days
Is this more contracts greenbus have lost?
Quote from: DiamondDart on December 02, 2013, 07:43:25 PM
Is this more contracts greenbus have lost?
In some cases but the King Edwards one is a contract The Green bus never managed to run in the first place!
Quote from: DiamondDart on December 02, 2013, 07:43:25 PM
Is this more contracts greenbus have lost?
It's not more, it's the same ones people were discussing a month or so ago, apart from KEC1 and NS2 which never were TGB's
A red Volvo B7TL on the Hagley run this morning, did not catch the number, if it's still on this afternoon I will see if it's 176 or a new one
All the East Lancs Volvo Olympians have been returned to Ensign over the weekend, except R830 MFR which was hanging on in service on the HC2 this morning
R830 MFR's gearbox temperature got to almost 110 Celsius this morning, is this normal?
I've seen at least 6 B7TLs out so far: Y167/168/176/178/197/236 NLK
The last EL Olympian (R830 MFR) should leave this weekend (next week at the latest). Apparently the drivers think the B7s are much worse than the Olympians and want the Olympians back. I am yet to ride one.
Quote from: nitromatt1 on December 13, 2013, 06:15:00 PM
I've seen at least 6 B7TLs out so far: Y167/168/176/178/197/236 NLK
The last EL Olympian (R830 MFR) should leave this weekend (next week at the latest). Apparently the drivers think the B7s are much worse than the Olympians and want the Olympians back. I am yet to ride one.
I would much have an Olympian over the B7TL's! :) You even said yourself to me Matt that the Olympians are Fast :)
So will the Hagley Services be fully B7TL operated Matt?
Quote from: Trident 4609 on December 13, 2013, 06:41:45 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on December 13, 2013, 06:15:00 PM
I've seen at least 6 B7TLs out so far: Y167/168/176/178/197/236 NLK
The last EL Olympian (R830 MFR) should leave this weekend (next week at the latest). Apparently the drivers think the B7s are much worse than the Olympians and want the Olympians back. I am yet to ride one.
I would much have an Olympian over the B7TL's! :) You even said yourself to me Matt that the Olympians are Fast :)
So will the Hagley Services be fully B7TL operated Matt?
In theory yes, although a Royale Olympian and a Spectra have appeared this week, in place of B7TLs. I am actively trying to get them to switch the allocation to Spectras/Olympians as the B7TLs simply do
not have enough seats
Are all the buses at Evergreen below capacity needed for the HC Services? Just to remind me what is the number of seats required on your school services? I'm sure you said it was 80 something but can't remember?
Quote from: Trident 4609 on December 13, 2013, 06:48:14 PM
Are all the buses at Evergreen below capacity needed for the HC Services? Just to remind me what is the number of seats required on your school services? I'm sure you said it was 80 something but can't remember?
The East Lancs Olympians have 72 seats and there are people standing each journey. The B7TLs have little over 60.
Evergreen initially promised us 85 seat buses, however the Spectras have 77 seats and the Royale Olympians have 81, either of these would do. Also, they both have many more downstairs seats which is important, as many kids would rather stand downstairs than go upstairs
Coach on SP2 on thursday
R830 MFR still hanging on in service on the HC2 today; despite its gearbox temperature reaching nearly 130°C this morning!
Also a green DD coach was put on the HC3 this afternoon.
Had one of the most beastly buses ever on the HC2 today, SUI 6584 a 1992 Optare Spectra. Such a fantastic ZF box, screaming when the driver put his foot to the floor. Really fast, and not a single rattle at 50mph either. Much better than the Olympians we had previously.
Acquired from Ensign during Dec
Volvo B7TL's Y178 / 197 / 246NLK : Evergreen Coaches, Birmingham.
Quote from: Winston on January 07, 2014, 10:03:33 PM
Acquired from Ensign during Dec
Volvo B7TL's Y178 / 197 / 246NLK : Evergreen Coaches, Birmingham.
Yeah, I think I saw all of these in service before Christmas
I was very surprised to see R830 MFR turn up on the HC2 this morning, can't believe it's still here. I'm not complaining though, especially with a driver who knows how to pull a tune out of a proper ZF...
Quote from: Matt on January 07, 2014, 11:37:44 PM
Quote from: Winston on January 07, 2014, 10:03:33 PM
Acquired from Ensign during Dec
Volvo B7TL's Y178 / 197 / 246NLK : Evergreen Coaches, Birmingham.
Yeah, I think I saw all of these in service before Christmas
I was very surprised to see R830 MFR turn up on the HC2 this morning, can't believe it's still here. I'm not complaining though, especially with a driver who knows how to pull a tune out of a proper ZF...
Unless its due to be returned to Ensign imminently or Evergreen are awaiting a few more B7TL's before they can release it, is R830MFR the only one left?
Quote from: Winston on January 07, 2014, 11:43:57 PM
Unless its due to be returned to Ensign imminently or Evergreen are awaiting a few more B7TL's before they can release it, is R830MFR the only one left?
Yeah, it is the only one left, the others went in early December
R830 MFR is still here on the HC2
Quote from: Matt on January 13, 2014, 01:59:52 PM
R830 MFR is still here on the HC2
I thought that had been gone sine December! Clearly not...
Quote from: Nathan on January 13, 2014, 04:08:21 PM
Quote from: Matt on January 13, 2014, 01:59:52 PM
R830 MFR is still here on the HC2
I thought that had been gone sine December! Clearly not...
No.... all others left in early December, but this one's stuck around for some reason. It was meant to go back over the weekend apparently.
In other news, one of the B7TLs has been given a private registration, it was IIG 9***.
Thanks for clearing that up for me:)
One of the B7s has been painted into Evergreen livery. It was IIG 9329 I think.
Quote from: Matt on January 20, 2014, 04:40:08 PM
One of the B7s has been painted into Evergreen livery. It was IIG 9329 I think.
Is that the orange livery like on the Spectra's I see on the Bilstons?
Quote from: Nathan on January 20, 2014, 05:23:23 PM
Quote from: Matt on January 20, 2014, 04:40:08 PM
One of the B7s has been painted into Evergreen livery. It was IIG 9329 I think.
Is that the orange livery like on the Spectra's I see on the Bilstons?
Yes. No EvergreenCoaches on the side, but Thandi logos on the front/rear upper windows
Sad news, R830 MFR left Alma St today never to return, after being in service on the HC2 only this morning. Thus ends the rather short era of East Lancs Olympians at Evergreen.
Two B7s now in orange
Anyone wanting to catch Evergreen's Olympians and Spectras in public service would be well advised to watch this space...
Quote from: Matt on January 30, 2014, 01:55:03 PM
Anyone wanting to catch Evergreen's Olympians and Spectras in public service would be well advised to watch this space...
Are they taking the leased Omnicity double deckers then?
Quote from: Winston on January 30, 2014, 02:33:13 PM
Quote from: Matt on January 30, 2014, 01:55:03 PM
Anyone wanting to catch Evergreen's Olympians and Spectras in public service would be well advised to watch this space...
Are they taking the leased Omnicity double deckers then?
Are you getting confused with Green Bus Winston? I can't see Evergreen taking on any Omnicities
Quote from: Nathan on January 30, 2014, 05:20:07 PM
Quote from: Winston on January 30, 2014, 02:33:13 PM
Quote from: Matt on January 30, 2014, 01:55:03 PM
Anyone wanting to catch Evergreen's Olympians and Spectras in public service would be well advised to watch this space...
Are they taking the leased Omnicity double deckers then?
Are you getting confused with Green Bus Winston? I can't see Evergreen taking on any Omnicities
Yep, replied without it registering that the Olympians & Spectra's Matt was referring to were Evergreen's rather than Greenbus
One of the Alexander Bodied Olympians parked outside Symphony Hall in Birmingham this afternoon with HC4 written on a piece of paper stuck to the windscreen (Presumably would have gone on to work the HC4)
Quote from: Nathan on January 31, 2014, 08:04:03 PM
One of the Alexander Bodied Olympians parked outside Symphony Hall in Birmingham this afternoon with HC4 written on a piece of paper stuck to the windscreen (Presumably would have gone on to work the HC4)
2058 is allocated to HC4 daily, HC1-HC3 are all B7TLs now
Quote from: Matt on January 31, 2014, 08:05:46 PM
Quote from: Nathan on January 31, 2014, 08:04:03 PM
One of the Alexander Bodied Olympians parked outside Symphony Hall in Birmingham this afternoon with HC4 written on a piece of paper stuck to the windscreen (Presumably would have gone on to work the HC4)
2058 is allocated to HC4 daily, HC1-HC3 are all B7TLs now
Just remembered that there was also a B7TL/President also parked up outside too picking up kids from an event (Which I was at) at the Symphony Hall about 14:10 so I presume these would have worked the Hagley Routes after this
Quote from: Nathan on January 31, 2014, 08:08:43 PM
Quote from: Matt on January 31, 2014, 08:05:46 PM
Quote from: Nathan on January 31, 2014, 08:04:03 PM
One of the Alexander Bodied Olympians parked outside Symphony Hall in Birmingham this afternoon with HC4 written on a piece of paper stuck to the windscreen (Presumably would have gone on to work the HC4)
2058 is allocated to HC4 daily, HC1-HC3 are all B7TLs now
Just remembered that there was also a B7TL/President also parked up outside too picking up kids from an event (Which I was at) at the Symphony Hall about 14:10 so I presume these would have worked the Hagley Routes after this
You'll almost certainly find they were taking kids from Hagley Catholic back to school from the event, would explain why 2058 and VPL180 were at the back of the 'queue' this afternoon.
Oh OK Thanks for that info matt :) Didn't stop to look which school it was ;)
Quote from: Nathan on January 31, 2014, 08:08:43 PM
Quote from: Matt on January 31, 2014, 08:05:46 PM
Quote from: Nathan on January 31, 2014, 08:04:03 PM
One of the Alexander Bodied Olympians parked outside Symphony Hall in Birmingham this afternoon with HC4 written on a piece of paper stuck to the windscreen (Presumably would have gone on to work the HC4)
2058 is allocated to HC4 daily, HC1-HC3 are all B7TLs now
Just remembered that there was also a B7TL/President also parked up outside too picking up kids from an event (Which I was at) at the Symphony Hall about 14:10 so I presume these would have worked the Hagley Routes after this
Did wonder where these were going, saw them driving through Sandpits shortly after 13:30 along with a couple Prospect coaches and a Green Bus Trident
Quote from: Matt on January 30, 2014, 01:55:03 PM
Anyone wanting to catch Evergreen's Olympians and Spectras in public service would be well advised to watch this space...
Come on now - what do you know / mean? Tell the whole story don't leave us hanging in suspense!!
I have updated the fleetlist on the main site to everything I know of
http://wmbusphotos.com/Evergreen/fleetlist.html
Does anybody know of anything different?
Quote from: Tony on February 02, 2014, 07:36:20 PM
I have updated the fleetlist on the main site to everything I know of
http://wmbusphotos.com/Evergreen/fleetlist.html
Does anybody know of anything different?
I did not realise IIG 6391 - 6394 had left the fleet, but they are rarely used on the Hagley services, so you may know more than me. I will try and ask tomorrow.
Also, most of the B7TLs have received IIG registrations, but I cannot remember which ones are on which buses. I will check any that are on Hagleys tomorrow
It may also be worth adding R830/831/838/841/845 MFR to vehicles that have now left the fleet
Quote from: Matt on February 02, 2014, 07:43:45 PM
Quote from: Tony on February 02, 2014, 07:36:20 PM
I have updated the fleetlist on the main site to everything I know of
http://wmbusphotos.com/Evergreen/fleetlist.html
Does anybody know of anything different?
I did not realise IIG 6391 - 6394 had left the fleet, but they are rarely used on the Hagley services, so you may know more than me. I will try and ask tomorrow.
Also, most of the B7TLs have received IIG registrations, but I cannot remember which ones are on which buses. I will check any that are on Hagleys tomorrow
It may also be worth adding R830/831/838/841/845 MFR to vehicles that have now left the fleet
Whoooops, Those Olympians haven't left the fleet, not quite sure what I was doing with them down there, now corrected
Those Thandi photos take you back..... J520GCD and K586ODY were really nice buses as Thandi or whatever they were called had repainted the exteriors and done up the seats. Makes you wonder why they quit the 63 as them, Travel Express and Diamond all seemed to carry decent loads...
Currently sat on IIG 9291 which is VPL 176 (Y176 NLK)
VPL178 (Y178 NLK) is now IIG 9296 and looks very nice in orange.
VPL168 is now IIG 9287, and keeps dropping out of gear, not sure it's going to make it home...
Quote from: Matt on February 07, 2014, 03:38:41 PM
VPL168 is now IIG 9287, and keeps dropping out of gear, not sure it's going to make it home...
Cheers Matt, just 3 left to get new registrations for now
Y167 NLK
Y197 NLK
Y236 NLK
Quote from: Tony on February 07, 2014, 06:47:50 PM
Quote from: Matt on February 07, 2014, 03:38:41 PM
VPL168 is now IIG 9287, and keeps dropping out of gear, not sure it's going to make it home...
Cheers Matt, just 3 left to get new registrations for now
Y167 NLK
Y197 NLK
Y236 NLK
No problem, Y197 NLK was still that today
Y197 NLK is now IIG 9298
It's nice to see evergreen (or as the stickers say on IIG9291 Thandi Coaches) in the sea of diamond and NXWM at halesowen
Quote from: the trainbasher on February 27, 2014, 04:08:52 PM
It's nice to see evergreen (or as the stickers say on IIG9291 Thandi Coaches) in the sea of diamond and NXWM at halesowen
Nice to see you in the sea of school uniforms in Halesowen too
Quote from: Matt on February 27, 2014, 04:40:13 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on February 27, 2014, 04:08:52 PM
It's nice to see evergreen (or as the stickers say on IIG9291 Thandi Coaches) in the sea of diamond and NXWM at halesowen
Nice to see you in the sea of school uniforms in Halesowen too
Lol I was partaking in my second hobby whilst bus photographing - civil enforcement officer spotting!! (nah I was actually waiting for a 22!
Quote from: the trainbasher on February 27, 2014, 04:49:17 PM
Quote from: Matt on February 27, 2014, 04:40:13 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on February 27, 2014, 04:08:52 PM
It's nice to see evergreen (or as the stickers say on IIG9291 Thandi Coaches) in the sea of diamond and NXWM at halesowen
Nice to see you in the sea of school uniforms in Halesowen too
Lol I was partaking in my second hobby whilst bus photographing - civil enforcement officer spotting!! (nah I was actually waiting for a 22!
122 was on its way in on a 22E to Halesowen. Did you catch one?
Quote from: Matt on February 27, 2014, 04:59:37 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on February 27, 2014, 04:49:17 PM
Quote from: Matt on February 27, 2014, 04:40:13 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on February 27, 2014, 04:08:52 PM
It's nice to see evergreen (or as the stickers say on IIG9291 Thandi Coaches) in the sea of diamond and NXWM at halesowen
Nice to see you in the sea of school uniforms in Halesowen too
Lol I was partaking in my second hobby whilst bus photographing - civil enforcement officer spotting!! (nah I was actually waiting for a 22!
122 was on its way in on a 22E to Halesowen. Did you catch one?
Saw 122 but didn't see one after so I went down to merry hill where I'm waiting to see
Quote from: the trainbasher on February 27, 2014, 05:05:42 PM
Quote from: Matt on February 27, 2014, 04:59:37 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on February 27, 2014, 04:49:17 PM
Quote from: Matt on February 27, 2014, 04:40:13 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on February 27, 2014, 04:08:52 PM
It's nice to see evergreen (or as the stickers say on IIG9291 Thandi Coaches) in the sea of diamond and NXWM at halesowen
Nice to see you in the sea of school uniforms in Halesowen too
Lol I was partaking in my second hobby whilst bus photographing - civil enforcement officer spotting!! (nah I was actually waiting for a 22!
122 was on its way in on a 22E to Halesowen. Did you catch one?
Saw 122 but didn't see one after so I went down to merry hill where I'm waiting to see
That 22E to Halesowen is usually the last one I see
Y236 NLK is now IIG 9249
Y167 NLK is now IIG 9286
Thus completing your list Tony?
Quote from: Matt on March 07, 2014, 10:39:54 AM
Y236 NLK is now IIG 9249
Y167 NLK is now IIG 9286
Thus completing your list Tony?
Yes it does, Thanks Matt, the fleetlist will be updated when today's changes run later on
9287 is the second B7TL to have been painted into the orange livery. Looks superb, although I'm sure it's an ever-so-slightly different shade of orange to 9296...
Looking at Tony's recently added photographs, it appears more of the B7TLs have been painted than I had realised.
9249, 9287, 9296 and 9329 have all been painted (albeit 9249 and 9287 are lacking any black!)
9298 seems to be the next one in for paint. This just leaves 9286 and 9291. I hope Evergreen can invest in some destination blind technology, like the Olympians and Spectras have - otherwise, looking promising!
The B7TLs, by the way, are great buses. I've only had one breakdown so far in the 6 months or so they've been here. Most are fast and change gear nice and smoothly. I've been on 5 so far, all Voith gearboxes, but from videos on Youtube I suspect the other two (9249 & 9329) have ZF
Quote from: Matt on June 10, 2014, 07:42:24 PM
Looking at Tony's recently added photographs, it appears more of the B7TLs have been painted than I had realised.
9249, 9287, 9296 and 9329 have all been painted (albeit 9249 and 9287 are lacking any black!)
9298 seems to be the next one in for paint. This just leaves 9286 and 9291. I hope Evergreen can invest in some destination blind technology, like the Olympians and Spectras have - otherwise, looking promising!
The B7TLs, by the way, are great buses. I've only had one breakdown so far in the 6 months or so they've been here. Most are fast and change gear nice and smoothly. I've been on 5 so far, all Voith gearboxes, but from videos on Youtube I suspect the other two (9249 & 9329) have ZF
Hi Matt - what I hadn't realised until I got home are some are converted to single door, are all of them and if so how many seats downstairs?
Quote from: Tony on June 10, 2014, 07:52:24 PM
Quote from: Matt on June 10, 2014, 07:42:24 PM
Looking at Tony's recently added photographs, it appears more of the B7TLs have been painted than I had realised.
9249, 9287, 9296 and 9329 have all been painted (albeit 9249 and 9287 are lacking any black!)
9298 seems to be the next one in for paint. This just leaves 9286 and 9291. I hope Evergreen can invest in some destination blind technology, like the Olympians and Spectras have - otherwise, looking promising!
The B7TLs, by the way, are great buses. I've only had one breakdown so far in the 6 months or so they've been here. Most are fast and change gear nice and smoothly. I've been on 5 so far, all Voith gearboxes, but from videos on Youtube I suspect the other two (9249 & 9329) have ZF
Hi Matt - what I hadn't realised until I got home are some are converted to single door, are all of them and if so how many seats downstairs?
I think all are single door, I don't remember seeing any with dual doors. I will do a seat-count in the morning if I remember!
9298 repainted and back out in service (courtesy of my lil sis)
Two remain in Metroline livery, 9286 and 9291
9287 on HC2 this morning in place of 9291. I suspect this means 9291 is next in for paint.
Current situation regarding the Presidents - 9286 is in service repainted into the orange livery (without the black), whilst 9291 was still in service yesterday in Metroline colours.
Meanwhile, my sister noticed 2058 sneaking onto the HC4 yesterday. It has apparently gained a large advert for "Bowen's Holidays"
are enthruaists allowed to photograph buses/coach fleet around the depot?
Quote from: nxwmbusfan1999 on July 28, 2014, 07:41:44 AM
are enthruaists allowed to photograph buses/coach fleet around the depot?
Not unless you ask the owners permission first.
Quote from: Winston on July 28, 2014, 01:10:40 PM
Quote from: nxwmbusfan1999 on July 28, 2014, 07:41:44 AM
are enthruaists allowed to photograph buses/coach fleet around the depot?
Not unless you ask the owners permission first.
And I have both been allowed and refused by Avi Thandi
Thandi B7TL/President for sale on ebay: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/321477911787
M18 BOT is also for sale on eBay. It says there's a choice of three but it's the only Scania K114EB4 on the fleetlist.
Are those double deckers ever used in normal service?
Only time I ever see them is up & down the Black Country Spine Road, sometimes showing a destination for a contract service.
Quote from: Tony on July 28, 2014, 06:04:21 PM
Quote from: Winston on July 28, 2014, 01:10:40 PM
Quote from: nxwmbusfan1999 on July 28, 2014, 07:41:44 AM
are enthruaists allowed to photograph buses/coach fleet around the depot?
Not unless you ask the owners permission first.
And I have both been allowed and refused by Avi Thandi
While I can understand us rank & file not being allowed in for safety reasons, you'd think Tony being a 'responsible' person & being in the same industry, he would be a bit more helpful.
(Unless NX have p***ed him off in some way & Tony is getting the backlash!)
Quote from: Westy on August 03, 2014, 09:05:02 AM
Quote from: Tony on July 28, 2014, 06:04:21 PM
Quote from: Winston on July 28, 2014, 01:10:40 PM
Quote from: nxwmbusfan1999 on July 28, 2014, 07:41:44 AM
are enthruaists allowed to photograph buses/coach fleet around the depot?
Not unless you ask the owners permission first.
And I have both been allowed and refused by Avi Thandi
While I can understand us rank & file not being allowed in for safety reasons, you'd think Tony being a 'responsible' person & being in the same industry, he would be a bit more helpful.
(Unless NX have p***ed him off in some way & Tony is getting the backlash!)
Just because Tony is in the industry and works at NXWM, and being educated in depot etiquette for one operator doesn't mean that he automatically gets to go in another companies depot. That other company may have different procedures to NXWM, that's why Tony, like the rest of us has to ask for permission.
I've been into depots of a few different operators (NXWM, Johnsons, Dudley's Coaches, Hansons, GRS, and a few others inside and outside the forum area) and every time I've done so, I've either asked and gained permission, been to an organised event involving that companies depot (organised enthusiasts visit/Depot Open Day), been invited in by a member of management/senior member of staff, or (in the case of GRS) been doing some bits and bobs for the operator.
At all times I've ensured that I've followed procedures and instructions by whoever has allowed me into the depot. But just because I've been to one operators depot does not mean that I automatically am allowed in every bus depot in existence!
Quote from: the trainbasher on August 03, 2014, 01:28:22 PM
Quote from: Westy on August 03, 2014, 09:05:02 AM
Quote from: Tony on July 28, 2014, 06:04:21 PM
Quote from: Winston on July 28, 2014, 01:10:40 PM
Quote from: nxwmbusfan1999 on July 28, 2014, 07:41:44 AM
are enthruaists allowed to photograph buses/coach fleet around the depot?
Not unless you ask the owners permission first.
And I have both been allowed and refused by Avi Thandi
While I can understand us rank & file not being allowed in for safety reasons, you'd think Tony being a 'responsible' person & being in the same industry, he would be a bit more helpful.
(Unless NX have p***ed him off in some way & Tony is getting the backlash!)
Just because Tony is in the industry and works at NXWM, and being educated in depot etiquette for one operator doesn't mean that he automatically gets to go in another companies depot. That other company may have different procedures to NXWM, that's why Tony, like the rest of us has to ask for permission.
I've been into depots of a few different operators (NXWM, Johnsons, Dudley's Coaches, Hansons, GRS, and a few others inside and outside the forum area) and every time I've done so, I've either asked and gained permission, been to an organised event involving that companies depot (organised enthusiasts visit/Depot Open Day), been invited in by a member of management/senior member of staff, or (in the case of GRS) been doing some bits and bobs for the operator.
At all times I've ensured that I've followed procedures and instructions by whoever has allowed me into the depot. But just because I've been to one operators depot does not mean that I automatically am allowed in every bus depot in existence!
Didn't say he would be allowed into every operator's premises.
What I mean is it's strange sometimes he's allowed in & sometimes he isn't.
Again as I said the reason not being intercompany politics but health and safety. One companies version of health and safety could be slightly different to another's!
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/321477911787
Are these not the ones recently acquired for the school services?
Quote from: Matt.N0056 on August 19, 2014, 08:06:23 PM
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/321477911787
Are these not the ones recently acquired for the school services?
Been trying to sell one for some time, presumably needs one less than he currently uses
Quote from: Tony on August 19, 2014, 08:12:04 PM
Quote from: Matt.N0056 on August 19, 2014, 08:06:23 PM
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/321477911787
Are these not the ones recently acquired for the school services?
Been trying to sell one for some time, presumably needs one less than he currently uses
Oh right, dont pay too much attention , my bad! :o
T4NND, now an all white Vo/VDL Berkhof, photographed yesterday, round the back of Paris Opera.
Quote from: mikestone on September 01, 2014, 08:42:44 AM
T4NND, now an all white Vo/VDL Berkhof, photographed yesterday, round the back of Paris Opera.
That will be with Thandi rather than Evergreen
Evergreen have a brand new coach in Bowens Travel livery VDL Bova DO14WEN
http://wallys-wanderings.smugmug.com/Scarborough-Coaches/Scarborough-2014-September/44163825_QChWwp#!i=3534622511&k=VnVfbxt&lb=1&s=A
If it's allowing standees when it's not plated then it's breaking the law too...
Thandi don't exactly drive slow either.
I only ever see hc4 unfortunately
Quote from: Matt on March 04, 2015, 06:01:41 PM
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Volvo-1997-Olympian-81-Seater-LWB-Double-Decker-Bus-Choice-Of-Two/321665610516?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140122125356%26meid%3De8e94a98b607486788078f3f582b3a09%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D5%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D271788608232&rt=nc
They are selling their best double deckers yet they do not have enough to avoid using coaches on the Hagley routes which need deckers! Thandi logic
Whose I could go on one of these. They look amazing
Quote from: Matt on March 12, 2015, 04:28:21 PM
Royale 2058 also on HC3, caught it home this afternoon, absolutely brilliant bus, so fast and smooth. Almost reminded me of a fast version of the MMC
Any pics?
Quote from: Matt on March 12, 2015, 04:30:54 PM
Quote from: Trident 4194 on March 12, 2015, 04:29:11 PM
Quote from: Matt on March 12, 2015, 04:28:21 PM
Royale 2058 also on HC3, caught it home this afternoon, absolutely brilliant bus, so fast and smooth. Almost reminded me of a fast version of the MMC
Any pics?
No...Tony will have one on the main site
What is the registration plates
The one on the hc4 was on there yesterday aswell
Quote from: Matt on May 20, 2015, 04:25:30 PM
For some unknown reason the HC1 and HC2 swapped buses and drivers this afternoon, also Bilston beast Royale 6393 was on the HC4! Still displaying SWB2. Why is it whenever I don't get the bus I miss all the fun
Hc4 was 15-20 minutes late this morning
More fleet for sale
W466EON- http://hillscoachsales.com/coach-sales/wp_car_dealer/2000-setra-315-gt-hd-48-recliner/
Quote from: Matt on May 24, 2015, 12:52:20 PM
On the same website they are advertising the remaining 5 Presidents for sale at silly prices
http://hillscoachsales.com/coach-sales/bus/2001-volvo-b7l-plaxton-president/
Surprised 9286 is still here along with the other 4, unless that listing is long out of date, it must be long term VOR
Also noticed 9287's MOT expiry date is 21/05/15, that explains why the HC4 allocation has changed to 6393!
Also MR05AVY the HC3 coach has been sold??
No way will they sell them at that price... Ensign's 03 tridents are only £16k fully dda and similar age, admittedly 2 door, B7tl/President's are £9k.
Quote from: DiamondDart on May 24, 2015, 01:52:38 PM
No way will they sell them at that price... Ensign's 03 tridents are only £16k fully dda and similar age, admittedly 2 door, B7tl/President's are £9k.
They appear to have been sold according to the Hills Coach website along with W466EON
W466EON - http://hillscoachsales.com/coach-sales/wp_car_dealer/2000-setra-315-gt-hd-48-recliner/
Plaxton's - http://hillscoachsales.com/coach-sales/bus/2001-volvo-b7l-plaxton-president/
Also:
PD0000154/8 - EVERGREEN COACHES LTD, THE COACH DEPOT, ALMA STREET, SMETHWICK, B66 2RL
Cancellation Accepted: Operating between Smethwick and Smethwick given service number 751 effective from 14-Oct-2016.
PD0000154/9 - EVERGREEN COACHES LTD, THE COACH DEPOT, ALMA STREET, SMETHWICK, B66 2RL
Cancellation Accepted: Operating between Smethwick and Southall given service number 753 effective from 14-Oct-2016.
PD0000154/10 - EVERGREEN COACHES LTD, THE COACH DEPOT, ALMA STREET, SMETHWICK, B66 2RL
Cancellation Accepted: Operating between Smethwick and Smethwick given service number 754 effective from 14-Oct-2016.
This topic may as well be merged with this one as well.
http://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=3778.msg143233#msg143233
Optare Spectra (2 left now) at £6,000 (One non runner) - http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/DAF-DB250-double-decker-bus-WITH-SEATBELTS-TACHOGRAPH-/322240302877?hash=item4b0704cf1d:g:FHcAAOSwuhhXVb2u
Volvo Olympians (2 Left) at £8,500 - http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Volvo-Olympian-double-decker-buses-WITH-SEATBELTS-TACHOGRAPH-LONG-MOTs-/322229757072?hash=item4b0663e490:g:f-kAAOSwhOVXfPy5
I hope that is this thread up to date...
Update:
Also on Hills Coaches: RUI6684
http://hillscoachsales.com/coach-sales/wp_car_dealer/85-volvo-b10mt-jonckheere-jubilee-p95/
BO66AVY Seen in Coventry this morning
https://www.flickr.com/gp/92409298@N06/w22TDT
While investigating the 53, I found the Alma Street depot on streetview with vehicles inside, and then when I next looked at the screen the sign on the gate had changed to "Thandi have moved"!
;
streetview shows an Omnilink or similar in the new yard, directly opposite the Hawthorns!
;
PSVC have Nottingham 212 ex Stagecarriage, Grangetown.
Quote from: mikestone on November 12, 2019, 09:02:51 PM
While investigating the 53, I found the Alma Street depot on streetview with vehicles inside, and then when I next looked at the screen the sign on the gate had changed to "Thandi have moved"!
;
streetview shows an Omnilink or similar in the new yard, directly opposite the Hawthorns!
If you look at Google Earth it still shows Thandi Red coaches in Alma Street, yet the Midland Metropolitan Hospital just down the road on the opposite side hasn't even been started. Carillion went bust in Jan 2018 and the hospital was fairly well on by then.
I notice that the 53 shows Smithwood on its destination display. One of my pet peevs is sloppy destination displays!
Quote from: Gareth on November 20, 2019, 10:00:27 AM
I notice that the 53 shows Smithwood on its destination display. One of my pet peevs is sloppy destination displays!
Considering that they didn't even have the 53 destination display for the first week of operation, I'll gladly take it.
I see the 53 isn't showing on stop BS14 anymore, just the ☓12 and ☓70 again. Has it gone already?
Quote from: MasterPlan on December 26, 2019, 11:49:23 PM
I see the 53 isn't showing on stop BS14 anymore, just the ☓12 and ☓70 again. Has it gone already?
It doesn't run on sundays and yesterday was a Sunday service.
Quote from: MasterPlan on December 26, 2019, 11:49:23 PM
I see the 53 isn't showing on stop BS14 anymore, just the ☓12 and ☓70 again. Has it gone already?
Quote from: Gareth on December 27, 2019, 08:09:45 AM
It doesn't run on sundays and yesterday was a Sunday service.
I think they mean that it isn't showing on the stop flags?
Quote from: NXWMFAN1105 on December 27, 2019, 11:28:24 AM
I think they mean that it isn't showing on the stop flags?
It won't show on the electronic departure screens if there are no services
Quote from: Tony on December 27, 2019, 11:31:45 AM
It won't show on the electronic departure screens if there are no services
Yes, it's showing again now. Wasn't aware the electronic ones did that to reflect it not running on a Sunday.
Quote from: Busboy105 on November 20, 2019, 10:55:19 AM
Considering that they didn't even have the 53 destination display for the first week of operation, I'll gladly take it.
Just seen this bus again today, making its pointless journey around Lanchester Way, Smith's Wood.
The blind
still says "Smithwood" on it. I assume it is a Thandi (Red) bus, as it was in an all white livery with no sign of any logos on the side.
Noticed the 53 will be having a route change from the 24th February.
It will now serve Alum Rock Road, Cotterills Lane and Belchers Lane, between Heartlands Hospital and Saltley.
The current route will no longer be served.
Might mean the service may pick up a few more passengers now.
New timetable is now on Traveline WM.
Quote from: 2206 on February 08, 2020, 05:58:39 PM
Noticed the 53 will be having a route change from the 24th February.
It will now serve Alum Rock Road and Belchers Lane, between Heartlands Hospital and Saltley.
The current route will no longer be served.
Might mean the service may pick up a few more passengers now.
New timetable is now on Traveline WM.
Not a bad idea,(Evergreen doing a decision that Diamond and IGO couldn't do in 10+ years of having the route) however the traffic around Pelham might cause reliability issues.
Quote from: Busboy105 on February 08, 2020, 06:56:28 PM
Not a bad idea,(Evergreen doing a decision that Diamond and IGO couldn't do in 10+ years of having the route) however the traffic around Pelham might cause reliability issues.
May not be evergreens decision
Quote from: Busboy105 on February 08, 2020, 06:56:28 PM
Not a bad idea,(Evergreen doing a decision that Diamond and IGO couldn't do in 10+ years of having the route) however the traffic around Pelham might cause reliability issues.
Operators do not decide the route of tendered services
Quote from: 2206 on February 08, 2020, 05:58:39 PM
Noticed the 53 will be having a route change from the 24th February.
It will now serve Alum Rock Road, Cotterills Lane and Belchers Lane, between Heartlands Hospital and Saltley.
The current route will no longer be served.
Might mean the service may pick up a few more passengers now.
New timetable is now on Traveline WM.
At least part of Cotterills Lane will have a bus service now. Can't remember when a bus last served part of it.
Quote from: 2206 on February 08, 2020, 05:58:39 PM
Noticed the 53 will be having a route change from the 24th February.
It will now serve Alum Rock Road, Cotterills Lane and Belchers Lane, between Heartlands Hospital and Saltley.
The current route will no longer be served.
Might mean the service may pick up a few more passengers now.
New timetable is now on Traveline WM.
Their insurance premium will be increasing then !
Quote from: ellspurs on February 08, 2020, 08:24:33 PM
At least part of Cotterills Lane will have a bus service now. Can't remember when a bus last served part of it.
I don't think it did
Scania Omnidekka RUI 2058 is on the 53 this afternoon. I believe it replaced YX18 KVR.
Quote from: 2206 on February 08, 2020, 05:58:39 PM
Noticed the 53 will be having a route change from the 24th February.
It will now serve Alum Rock Road, Cotterills Lane and Belchers Lane, between Heartlands Hospital and Saltley.
The current route will no longer be served.
Might mean the service may pick up a few more passengers now.
New timetable is now on Traveline WM.
I have to say I'm not surprised that the Saltley/Bordesley Green area is finally being dropped, never seen anyone use the bus there
Still somehow seems a bit of a shame though
Quote from: Kevin on February 21, 2020, 11:25:10 AM
I have to say I'm not surprised that the Saltley/Bordesley Green area is finally being dropped, never seen anyone use the bus there
Still somehow seems a bit of a shame though
What about the Stechford part? Does anyone use that as well?
I saw the 53 this afternoon on Masshouse Lane, going onto The Priory Queensway just before 2pm.
I did see a passenger on it as well.
With the 28A changing operator on the 27th April -
Does anyone know what timetable it will be operating to? Strange no timetable has been released publicly when that is now only a week and a half away.
Quote from: 2206 on April 15, 2020, 07:43:18 PM
With the 28A changing operator on the 27th April -
Does anyone know what timetable it will be operating to? Strange no timetable has been released publicly when that is now only a week and a half away.
Network West Midlands are not allowing any access to timetables on their website.
In the vast majority of cases, when tendered services change operator, there is no change to route or timetable, unless stated otherwise.
So I'd work on the assumption that the timetable remains as present, just the operator that changes.
Quote from: 2206 on April 15, 2020, 07:43:18 PM
With the 28A changing operator on the 27th April -
Does anyone know what timetable it will be operating to? Strange no timetable has been released publicly when that is now only a week and a half away.
i read somewhere its reduced to hourly wonder what they will be using on it
I've noticed that the 53 seems to have had a minor route change at its terminus in Smith's Wood. Instead of doing a loop which went up Lanchester Way and back along Auckland Drive, bus stop flags now indicate that it operates in both directions on Lanchester Way. Not that it will get much patronage, it does remove an anomaly where Lanchester Way was only served by a bus that terminated at the end of the road, and didn't continue on its return journey for some time.
Quote from: Stu on April 15, 2020, 07:51:17 PM
Network West Midlands are not allowing any access to timetables on their website.
In the vast majority of cases, when tendered services change operator, there is no change to route or timetable, unless stated otherwise.
So I'd work on the assumption that the timetable remains as present, just the operator that changes.
What tenders are changing operator from 26th April?
Quote from: fleetline6477 on April 20, 2020, 10:25:16 PM
What tenders are changing operator from 26th April?
28A, 23 and 108 (X15).
https://www.diamondbuses.com/west-midlands/service-updates/
Thanks 2206.
28A is being reduced then, new timetable is here:
http://www.travelinemidlands.co.uk/wmtis/XSLT_TTB_REQUEST?language=en&command=direct&net=cen&line=4928A&sup=%20&itdLPxx_direction=H&project=y11&outputFormat=0&itdLPxx_displayHeader=false&itdLPxx_sessionID=EFA02_65236062&lineVer=2&itdLPxx_spTr=2&itdLPxx_operatorCodeForTTB=THA
Hourly with a 90 minute gap before the last bus of the day.
Later journeys in the day will resume it appears which haven't ran for a while as its been finishing at 2PM operating to a Saturday timetable when operated by Diamond due to coronavirus.
Also notice they will be finishing slightly later than Diamond Bus as there is a 17:58 journey from Small Heath to Ward End, whereas Diamond used to finish at 17:15.
Quote from: 2206 on April 23, 2020, 08:21:35 PM
28A is being reduced then, new timetable is here:
http://www.travelinemidlands.co.uk/wmtis/XSLT_TTB_REQUEST?language=en&command=direct&net=cen&line=4928A&sup=%20&itdLPxx_direction=H&project=y11&outputFormat=0&itdLPxx_displayHeader=false&itdLPxx_sessionID=EFA02_65236062&lineVer=2&itdLPxx_spTr=2&itdLPxx_operatorCodeForTTB=THA
Hourly with a 90 minute gap before the last bus of the day.
Later journeys in the day will resume it appears which haven't ran for a while as its been finishing at 2PM operating to a Saturday timetable when operated by Diamond due to coronavirus.
Also notice they will be finishing slightly later than Diamond Bus as there is a 17:58 journey from Small Heath to Ward End, whereas Diamond used to finish at 17:15.
Makes sense that the 28A is now hourly; doesn't get much passengers as well as it being a very short route (only over 20 minutes),
Quote from: Busboy105 on April 23, 2020, 09:58:46 PM
Makes sense that the 28A is now hourly; doesn't get much passengers as well as it being a very short route (only over 20 minutes),
Shorter routes don't necessarily mean there's low passenger use.
First Day today on 28A and in use was red Scania omnilink X21BUS no pic im afraid . Anyone any history on this bus?
Quote from: cris 99 on April 27, 2020, 09:58:26 PM
First Day today on 28A and in use was red Scania omnilink X21BUS no pic im afraid . Anyone any history on this bus?
https://flic.kr/p/TEBM2F
ex NCT YN54AHF according to the description
Quote from: cris 99 on April 27, 2020, 09:58:26 PM
First Day today on 28A and in use was red Scania omnilink X21BUS no pic im afraid . Anyone any history on this bus?
Ex Stagecarriage in the North East, new as 'YN54 AHF' to Nottingham
Quote from: cris 99 on April 27, 2020, 09:58:26 PM
First Day today on 28A and in use was red Scania omnilink X21BUS no pic im afraid . Anyone any history on this bus?
What were they awarded the contract on? I'm surprised TfWM would allow them to use a 16 year old Scania as it surely doesn't meet the euro 6 emission standards?
Quote from: NXWMFAN1105 on April 27, 2020, 10:09:44 PM
What were they awarded the contract on? I'm surprised TfWM would allow them to use a 16 year old Scania as it surely doesn't meet the euro 6 emission standards?
Perhaps you might be able to advise where you can go and buy/lease a bus at the moment?
Quote from: Tony on April 27, 2020, 10:13:51 PM
Perhaps you might be able to advise where you can go and buy/lease a bus at the moment?
But when was the route put out to tender? If it was only a few weeks ago, then I can understand but if it was before the lockdown, then the company surely would've had enough time to obtain a suitable vehicle. And if they didn't have a vehicle that was suitable for the contract, why did they bid for it in the first place?
This was in May https://flic.kr/p/2g4rqrM when seen in the yard
Would it need to meet Euro6 though? The 28A route doesn't go into the Clean Air Zone.
Or is Euro6 a condition of any TfWM tenders?
Quote from: NXWMFAN1105 on April 27, 2020, 10:27:35 PM
But when was the route put out to tender? If it was only a few weeks ago, then I can understand but if it was before the lockdown, then the company surely would've had enough time to obtain a suitable vehicle. And if they didn't have a vehicle that was suitable for the contract, why did they bid for it in the first place?
I have no idea on what basis the contract was awarded. However, if the contract requires Euro 6 TfWM normally allow a period of time for this requirement to be fulfilled.
The tender also went out well before the pandemic
Quote from: ellspurs on April 28, 2020, 03:31:45 AM
Would it need to meet Euro6 though? The 28A route doesn't go into the Clean Air Zone.
Or is Euro6 a condition of any TfWM tenders?
The 303 in Bilston doesn't go into a clean air zone, but Travel Express had to purchase new vehicles that met euro 6 standards when they won the contract a few years back.
Quote from: Steveminor on April 28, 2020, 07:41:20 AM
The tender also went out well before the pandemic
So they've had sufficient time to source a suitable vehicle.
Quote from: NXWMFAN1105 on April 27, 2020, 10:27:35 PM
But when was the route put out to tender? If it was only a few weeks ago, then I can understand but if it was before the lockdown, then the company surely would've had enough time to obtain a suitable vehicle. And if they didn't have a vehicle that was suitable for the contract, why did they bid for it in the first place?
NXWM ordered E014 and E019 many months ago, but cannot get them because they are stuck in premises. You do realise these times are extremely hard for businesses.
Quote from: Tony on April 28, 2020, 09:11:45 AM
NXWM ordered E014 and E019 many months ago, but cannot get them because they are stuck in premises. You do realise these times are extremely hard for businesses.
I understand that it is difficult for businesses, but if the tenders were put out well before the pandemic then I can't see why they haven't obtained a new vehicle. I understand that the buses used on the 53 are rentals, so they'd likely have done the same for the 28A in which case, they wouldn't have had to wait as long for a new bus to be manufactured
Quote from: NXWMFAN1105 on April 28, 2020, 01:50:34 PM
I understand that it is difficult for businesses, but if the tenders were put out well before the pandemic then I can't see why they haven't obtained a new vehicle. I understand that the buses used on the 53 are rentals, so they'd likely have done the same for the 28A in which case, they wouldn't have had to wait as long for a new bus to be manufactured
You're assuming that the likes of Dawson Rentals & Mistral are still open for business. As demand for rentals will have been vapourised due to most operators having large portions of their own fleets parked up doing nothing, they may well have furloughed their staff & closed up during lockdown.
Quote from: Winston on April 28, 2020, 02:00:23 PM
You're assuming that the likes of Dawson Rentals & Mistral are still open for business. As demand for rentals will have been vapourised due to most operators having large portions of their own fleets parked up doing nothing, they may well have furloughed their staff & closed up during lockdown.
I'm not assuming they're open now. It's obvious that they aren't. I'm assuming they were open for business before the lockdown, when the tender was put out, in which Evergreen could have sourced a vehicle.
Quote from: NXWMFAN1105 on April 28, 2020, 02:04:14 PM
I'm assuming they were open for business before the lockdown, when the tender was put out, in which Evergreen could have sourced a vehicle.
Quote from: Simon Dunn on April 28, 2020, 06:42:20 AM
I have no idea on what basis the contract was awarded. However, if the contract requires Euro 6 TfWM normally allow a period of time for this requirement to be fulfilled.
Do all tenders need euro 6 vehicles? As the 25 uses Solo as well - 20058 today and I presume these are not euro 6?
Could it be that the 28A tender doesn't require euro 6?
Quote from: 2206 on April 28, 2020, 02:05:48 PM
Do all tenders need euro 6 vehicles? As the 25 uses Solo as well - 20058 today and I presume these are not euro 6?
It may have had a trap fitted, in which case it would meet the emission standards.
Quote from: NXWMFAN1105 on April 28, 2020, 01:50:34 PM
I understand that it is difficult for businesses, but if the tenders were put out well before the pandemic then I can't see why they haven't obtained a new vehicle. I understand that the buses used on the 53 are rentals, so they'd likely have done the same for the 28A in which case, they wouldn't have had to wait as long for a new bus to be manufactured
So, You go to Dawson Rentals in Fberuary and say to them " I need a bus from 27th April" They say yes you can have this, it will be £600 per month. No-one in there right mind would pay that extra £1,200 to have a bus sat doing nothing for 2 months, you agree to take delivery around the 23rd April, then oh dear 23rd April you cannot get your bus.
Quote from: Tony on April 28, 2020, 02:33:02 PM
So, You go to Dawson Rentals in Fberuary and say to them " I need a bus from 27th April" They say yes you can have this, it will be £600 per month. No-one in there right mind would pay that extra £1,200 to have a bus sat doing nothing for 2 months, you agree to take delivery around the 23rd April, then oh dear 23rd April you cannot get your bus.
Tony, we're wasting our time, trying to justify it to someone that knows better.
Quote from: Tony on April 28, 2020, 02:33:02 PM
So, You go to Dawson Rentals in Fberuary and say to them " I need a bus from 27th April" They say yes you can have this, it will be £600 per month. No-one in there right mind would pay that extra £1,200 to have a bus sat doing nothing for 2 months, you agree to take delivery around the 23rd April, then oh dear 23rd April you cannot get your bus.
Quote from: Winston on April 28, 2020, 02:38:46 PM
Tony, we're wasting our time, trying to justify it to someone that knows better.
Right, I understand things clearer now. I apologise if you feel that I came across as "someone who knows better," I just wanted to find out clearly why they hadn't sourced another vehicle.
Quote from: 2206 on April 28, 2020, 02:05:48 PM
Do all tenders need euro 6 vehicles? As the 25 uses Solo as well - 20058 today and I presume these are not euro 6?
Could it be that the 28A tender doesn't require euro 6?
Not all yet, only new tenders - existing tenders may still be specified as Euro 5 & below. Just depends what they are & where they serve i.e. within AQPS zones.
Quote from: Winston on April 28, 2020, 03:27:33 PM
Not all yet, only new tenders - existing tenders may still be specified as Euro 5 & below. Just depends what they are & where they serve i.e. within AQPS zones.
Operators put in different bid prices depending on what vehicle they intend to use.
Dawsons etc will be charging a premium on any euro 6 vehicle, so anyone hiring a bus will need to be including this
The routes NXWM won on euro 6 included the price of fitting the trap spread over the 3 years
What bus is the 28A operated with?
Quote from: Jack D on May 20, 2020, 01:23:36 PM
What bus is the 28A operated with?
Still being operated by the red Omnicity. X21BUS.
Quote from: 2206 on May 20, 2020, 01:25:00 PM
Still being operated by the red Omnicity. X21BUS.
isn't that going to have problems navigating the tight roads in Small Heath?
Quote from: Busboy105 on May 20, 2020, 03:12:49 PM
isn't that going to have problems navigating the tight roads in Small Heath?
NXWM used to have Metrobuses and Lynx's in this area when the 99 used to run through there. Apart from a bit of waiting to pass parked cars, there never used to be an issue.
Quote from: ellspurs on May 20, 2020, 03:22:53 PM
NXWM used to have Metrobuses and Lynx's in this area when the 99 used to run through there.
And the 24 (Ward End to Small Heath) used Metrobuses when operated by NXWM about 10 years ago. The 28A was numbered 24 back then.
Quote from: 2206 on May 20, 2020, 01:25:00 PM
Still being operated by the red Omnicity. X21BUS.
the red one is the bus they will be using on 28a not sure if when it all goes back to normal it might get an Enviro on loan
Quote from: 2206 on May 20, 2020, 01:25:00 PM
Still being operated by the red Omnicity. X21BUS.
Seen it yesterday by Asda Small Heath. Thought it was the NX28 until I saw it was red and black and that the rear was different from the NX Scanias! :D
Quote from: Busboy105 on June 10, 2020, 09:08:09 PM
Seen it yesterday by Asda Small Heath. Thought it was the NX28 until I saw it was red and black and that the rear was different from the NX Scanias! :D
thandi red run 28a small heath -Ward Endv till about 5 then NXBUS runs after 5 think they changed due to traffic delays
Quote from: Solo1 on June 10, 2020, 11:37:53 PM
thandi red run 28a small heath -Ward Endv till about 5 then NXBUS runs after 5 think they changed due to traffic delays
The 28 Small Heath extension has always run after 5pm even when it was known as the 28B
And still today they haven't got working destination displays on the Omnicity after nearly 2 months. Still has a paper with 28A on it in the windscreen.
Wander what their reasons for this are?
Quote from: 2206 on June 13, 2020, 03:52:10 PM
And still today they haven't got working destination displays on the Omnicity after nearly 3 months. Still has a paper with 28A on it in the windscreen.
Wander what their reasons for this are?
Didn't they only just start working on the route a couple of weeks ago?
Quote from: Busboy105 on June 13, 2020, 03:54:58 PM
Didn't they only just start working on the route a couple of weeks ago?
Was April I think, so 7 weeks ago now.
I've been wandering when it will be done for a many weeks now, but still hadn't got a working destination display when I saw it today.
Quote from: 2206 on June 13, 2020, 03:52:10 PM
And still today they haven't got working destination displays on the Omnicity after nearly 2 months. Still has a paper with 28A on it in the windscreen.
Wander what their reasons for this are?
They may not have the correct programming software or the hardware to install the displays into the controller.
Quote from: Pat on June 13, 2020, 04:02:01 PM
They may not have the correct programming software or the hardware to install the displays into the controller.
Aren't they using that Omnicity until they get a E200?
They're still incapable of spelling "Smith's Wood" correctly so the paper signs are probably an improvement!
Quote from: ellspurs on June 13, 2020, 04:20:45 PM
They're still incapable of spelling "Smith's Wood" correctly so the paper signs are probably an improvement!
Does it really matter?
Quote from: Busboy105 on June 13, 2020, 04:27:11 PM
Does it really matter?
Yes, as the destination must be accurate.
Quote from: Busboy105 on June 13, 2020, 04:04:54 PM
Aren't they using that Omnicity until they get a E200?
I think so. Not sure what displays are in the Scania, if any.
Quote from: Pat on June 13, 2020, 04:30:19 PM
Yes, as the destination must be accurate.
It is just a apostrophe. I didn't see anyone complaining when Green Bus put Kings Heath as King's Heath.
Quote from: Busboy105 on June 13, 2020, 04:56:27 PM
It is just a apostrophe. I didn't see anyone complaining when Green Bus put Kings Heath as King's Heath.
It's not just an apostrophe, and the Green Bus variation is correct
Quote from: Busboy105 on June 13, 2020, 04:56:27 PM
It is just a apostrophe. I didn't see anyone complaining when Green Bus put Kings Heath as King's Heath.
Evergreen say 'Smithwood' instead of 'Smiths Wood'
Quote from: Busboy105 on June 13, 2020, 04:56:27 PM
It is just a apostrophe. I didn't see anyone complaining when Green Bus put Kings Heath as King's Heath.
Their signs say "Smithwood".
They're missing the s in the middle as well. I wouldn't mention it if it was just the apostrophe as it seems dependent on the mood whether it is included or not. In the late nineties the signage around here stated "Smithswood". At some point in the early 2000s, people decided that the apostrophe was needed and it became Smith's Wood.
Edit: Both Tony and Pat beat me to the punch!
Similar issue with Kitts Green. There's a signpost on the roundabout junction of the A452/B4114 which has a "Kitt's Green" sign on it, and when you get to the roundabout at Bacons End island (where the BP garage is), it suddenly becomes "Kitts Green". The distance between these signs is less than 200 metres.
There's always been an issue with apostrophes around here.
Quote from: ellspurs on June 13, 2020, 05:07:48 PM
There's always been an issue with apostrophes around here.
Birmingham Council decided to drop all apostrophes a few years back, hence the mix due to replacement of some signs
What chassis does the Omnilink have? It sounds and looks different from NX's Omnilinks. Is it an earlier model?
Quote from: Busboy105 on June 16, 2020, 07:17:09 PM
What chassis does the Omnilink have? It sounds and looks different from NX's Omnilinks. Is it an earlier model?
Its an OmniCity not OmniLink
Is there a picture of the vehicle?
Quote from: Trident 4194 on June 16, 2020, 07:37:48 PM
Is there a picture of the vehicle?
https://www.flickr.com/photos/quomaneastlothian/31761877667/in/photolist-2g4rqrM-2iVmifE-QXZ1xC-26CxTw6-L2z7fq-LcrrwD-2a4qfSo-YpjgEa-Mbypah-TEBM2F-XCNqiB-QoFVEt-27hbf1N-NQisYU-Lcrrwt-2376eR3-TUhLGy-2cooMeF-21Q3QH5-J1GKT3-YbuBc5-27y2EDP-S3qhTw-QZtnu7-MsbACt-YbuBcA-S3qqtm-RTgzhw-LWoH2f-2crLfXB-26DJ9u6-WWrWrn-Yj2L9D-Vk4dDh-MbDZhq-LGYR7M-2c3M4Bh/
Called to a public enquiry in todays N&P.
Quote from: Pat on June 13, 2020, 04:31:13 PM
I think so. Not sure what displays are in the Scania, if any.
It has Mobitec screens in it, but needs a flashcard to update them.
Quote from: tyresmoke on August 23, 2020, 01:14:49 PM
It has Mobitec screens in it, but needs a flashcard to update them.
It's not that difficult, you can get a card and a reader very cheaply online. It's basically a very outdated storage medium for cameras.
Alternatively, just swap the controller out for a USB model. They show up on eBay from time to time.
Quote from: justlookingaround on August 24, 2020, 03:21:41 PM
Alternatively, just swap the controller out for a USB model. They show up on eBay from time to time.
You can get them direct from McKenna too I believe.
Has any more information been released on why they've been called up to a public enquiry?
I did see both vehicles on the 53 the other week. One of them had no displayed number showing on the side/rear, and both were in plain white.
Didn't see if they've managed to correct "Smithwood" yet.
There were passengers on both buses as well.
Saw a Double decker Scania on the 28A today, YV03PZY parked on the 28 stop at Ward End. Must be the first time in a decade that a double decker has been used on that section of the 28 route. The last time being when the Metrobus were used on the 24 service.
Wander what happened to the single decker scania.
Quote from: 2206 on August 24, 2020, 08:44:42 PM
Saw a Double decker Scania on the 28A today, YV03PZY parked on the 28 stop at Ward End. Must be the first time in a decade that a double decker has been used on that section of the 28 route. The last time being when the Metrobus were used on the 24 service.
Wander what happened to the single decker scania.
Been used on a few occasions before now..
not my photo - https://flic.kr/p/2jy1gJU
My, that is a tad overkill for that route. At least social distancing can be practiced well on it.
Rumour is Thandi has been awarded de Courcey contract for school buses any truth in this
Quote from: Nxwm on September 01, 2020, 12:20:52 AM
Rumour is Thandi has been awarded de Courcey contract for school buses any truth in this
It's no rumour, its on the NWM website:
https://www.networkwestmidlands.com/plan-your-journey/back-to-school/coventry-schools/
Quote from: Stu on September 01, 2020, 08:07:01 AM
It's no rumour, its on the NWM website:
https://www.networkwestmidlands.com/plan-your-journey/back-to-school/coventry-schools/
What I can't understand about that article on the website is why are Nbus tickets needed, surely if the service is being operated by National Express then their tickets should be valid on it?
Services are following council rules
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on September 01, 2020, 12:17:24 PM
What I can't understand about that article on the website is why are Nbus tickets needed, surely if the service is being operated by National Express then their tickets should be valid on it?
You can use the National Express tickets on the NX school services.
Quote from: Lukeeee2018 on September 01, 2020, 03:52:53 PM
You can use the National Express tickets on the NX school services.
There's a paragraph 2/3 of the way down which says:
Quote from: NWM websiteIf you have already purchased a National Express West Midlands bus ticket, this ticket will be accepted for a limited period until the ticket expires but you must change to an N bus ticket on your next purchase. If you are a direct debit customer you will need to ask your provider to upgrade your ticket to a N bus.
I think that is meant to say "De Courcey" rather than NXWM there.
As de courcey hadn't sold any school passes I doubt it.
Are they implying that the NXWM tickets aren't valid on school services provided by NXWM going forward? Or is it specific to these ex-de Courcey school services?
It's most likely just these school services as they are specifically closed door contracts
@Tony will probably be able to confirm in due course
Any idea why evergreen coaches were at the public enquiry today?
Double decker scania on the 28A today. Saw it at Ward End at about 15:40. The single decker must be off the road again.
I saw one of the 53s heading off down Jennens Road this afternoon, still displaying "City Centre" as its destination.
Quote from: Nxwm on September 16, 2020, 05:16:59 PM
Any idea why evergreen coaches were at the public enquiry today?
A few reasons. Mainly driving hours infringements as well as financial standing issues. It seems that they have had their licence revoked as of 1st Jan 2021 and the TM has lost their repute.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/written-decision-for-thandi-coaches-red-ltd-pd0000154/written-decision-for-thandi-coaches-red-ltd-pd0000154
Quote from: IMarkeh on November 17, 2020, 04:33:15 AM
A few reasons. Mainly driving hours infringements as well as financial standing issues. It seems that they have had their licence revoked as of 1st Jan 2021 and the TM has lost their repute.
Wonder who will take on their 28A and 53 routes then?
Wonder if 28A could be incorporated into the PB 28 then, with hourly extension from Heartlands to Small Heath, as the evening journeys on PB 28 run to Small Heath already.
Quote from: 2206 on November 17, 2020, 11:24:14 AM
Wander who will take on their 28A and 53 routes then?
Wander if 28A could be incorporated into the PB 28 then, with hourly extension from Heartlands to Small Heath, as the evening journeys on PB 28 run to Small Heath already.
If NX take on the 53 I will ride the full route from Smith's Wood to the City Centre. Used to love taking the 99 all around the back roads to the city.
Quote from: 2206 on November 17, 2020, 11:24:14 AM
Wander who will take on their 28A and 53 routes then?
Wander if 28A could be incorporated into the PB 28 then, with hourly extension from Heartlands to Small Heath, as the evening journeys on PB 28 run to Small Heath already.
Claribels could take them. Both services aren't far from the depot so less dead runs.Probably wouldn't though considering the current climate.
Quote from: Busboy105 on November 17, 2020, 04:49:59 PM
Claribels could take them. Both services aren't far from the depot so less dead runs.Probably wouldn't though considering the current climate.
Surely considering the current climate any operator would want to win any tendered work they can, assuming both services are tendered, as long they could resource it properly.
Quote from: Cheese on November 17, 2020, 04:57:29 PM
Surely considering the current climate any operator would want to win any tendered work they can, assuming both services are tendered, as long they could resource it properly.
Both of them are tendered. Claribelsbshould have some spares after they dropped the 55. Both services only need 3 buses between the two of them.
Quote from: Busboy105 on November 17, 2020, 05:17:24 PM
Claribels should have some spares after they dropped the 55.
55 was in recent years, peak only and went onto/came off other services as far as I know.
Wheras 28A and 53 are all day routes I think peak and 9AM - 3PM.
Quote from: 2206 on November 17, 2020, 05:33:36 PM
55 was in recent years, peak only and went onto/came off other services as far as I know.
Wheras 28A and 53 are all day routes I think peak and 9AM - 3PM.
28A runs from 7AM-5PM
53 is similar I believe.
Quote from: 2206 on November 17, 2020, 11:24:14 AM
Wander who will take on their 28A and 53 routes then?
Wander if 28A could be incorporated into the PB 28 then, with hourly extension from Heartlands to Small Heath, as the evening journeys on PB 28 run to Small Heath already.
"Wonder", not "wander" :D
As these are contracted services, TfWM will presumably have to retender them, so it will depend on which operator(s) decide to bid on them.
Quote from: IMarkeh on November 17, 2020, 04:33:15 AM
A few reasons. Mainly driving hours infringements as well as financial standing issues. It seems that they have had their licence revoked as of 1st Jan 2021 and the TM has lost their repute.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/written-decision-for-thandi-coaches-red-ltd-pd0000154/written-decision-for-thandi-coaches-red-ltd-pd0000154
Its criminal to know that the perfectly kept Evergreen licence 0000154 has ended up like this, makes me so sad.
I reckon claribels will take the 53 could potentially extend to chelmsley from smiths wood? and NX i reckon will take 28A as a hourly extension
Quote from: Jack D on November 19, 2020, 02:26:49 PM
I reckon claribels will take the 53 could potentially extend to chelmsley from smiths wood? and NX i reckon will take 28A as a hourly extension
There's no point extending the 53 to Chelmsley Wood when all of NX's services to Chelmsley Wood are more frequent and serve the same areas as the 53. If NX was to take the 28A, they could extend the whole 28 to Small Heath with short journeys at Heartlands Hospital and also reducing the Heartlands Hospital to Small Heath from every half hour to hourly in the eveningsz
Quote from: Busboy105 on November 19, 2020, 04:14:29 PM
There's no point extending the 53 to Chelmsley Wood when all of NX's services to Chelmsley Wood are more frequent and serve the same areas as the 53. If NX was to take the 28A, they could extend the whole 28 to Small Heath with short journeys at Heartlands Hospital and also reducing the Heartlands Hospital to Small Heath from every half hour to hourly in the eveningsz
The evening runs are a separate contract so they would have to stay at 30 mins
Quote from: Busboy105 on November 19, 2020, 04:14:29 PM
There's no point extending the 53 to Chelmsley Wood when all of NX's services to Chelmsley Wood are more frequent and serve the same areas as the 53.
But to some, having a direct service from their street, rather than having to walk to the main road to catch an NX service is more attractive. At the end of the day, tendered routes are such as they are socially necessary. It gives passengers more choice where they can go, and extending may increase passenger numbers slightly.
How busy is the 53 pre lockdown
Quote from: Pat on November 19, 2020, 11:03:24 PM
But to some, having a direct service from their street, rather than having to walk to the main road to catch an NX service is more attractive. At the end of the day, tendered routes are such as they are socially necessary. It gives passengers more choice where they can go, and extending may increase passenger numbers slightly.
The 53 has 10 minutes turn around time. Even using the most direct route to Chelmsley Wood via Auckland Drive would take 10 minutes each way. Extending to Chelmsley would either result in the loss of a clockface headway, poor reliability, or extra cost of the introduction to a third vehicle to the PVR. The costs vs benefits of this are unlikely to improve the value for money that greatly and the cost of this extra vehicle wouldn't be covered.
Quote from: Solo1 on November 19, 2020, 11:35:18 PM
How busy is the 53 pre lockdown
Not very busy. Usually see 1 or two people when it passes me at Heartlands. That isn't an indication of the whole route maybe it's busy at other points of the route.
Wonder if they might reduce the 28A service to hourly if not used tat much as I believe it contract ,& would save network West Midlands money
Quote from: Solo1 on November 20, 2020, 01:15:48 PM
Wonder if they might reduce the 53 service to hourly if not used tat much as I believe it contract ,& would save network West Midlands money
It's already hourly...
I gather it is one of those services that is there to tick the boxes for serving certain areas. I've never seen more than three people on it, even when igo was running it.
Quote from: Solo1 on November 20, 2020, 05:09:08 PM
I meant 28A
28A is already hourly to Small Heath in the day when Evergreen run it.
Though it increases to half hourly when its operated by NX in the evenings as the full 28 (Small Heath - Old Oscott).
Also if kept as a single route, I think this looks like a nice idea for the 28A personally.
https://www.google.co.uk/maps/dir/52.4931109,-1.8181421/52.4977213,-1.8305363/52.4803313,-1.8328186/@52.4942118,-1.8268239,15z/data=!4m30!4m29!1m10!3m4!1m2!1d-1.8208825!2d52.4963236!3s0x4870bae78f55d42f:0x57917b636239a8dc!3m4!1m2!1d-1.828144!2d52.4954956!3s0x4870bae089a71d8f:0xf16085f788d08360!1m15!3m4!1m2!1d-1.8311617!2d52.4979278!3s0x4870badf8a3b2181:0x55e932d6d3134d43!3m4!1m2!1d-1.8332593!2d52.5004921!3s0x4870bb2094a89317:0x12907c6050e68db7!3m4!1m2!1d-1.8395059!2d52.4965417!3s0x4870bb2272afbd41:0x8c0c1702a6fa9b51!1m0!3e0
Rather than following the same route as NX 28 on the Alum Rock Road.
And would put a service at those stops on Drews Lane from when the 72 was taken off there. And people living on Sladefield Road/Ingleton Road getting a bus service, which I don't think have had one before. Might be more attractive, having a bus route down peoples streets. And looks like a nice route I think as well.
Quote from: 2206 on November 20, 2020, 05:10:16 PM
28A is already hourly to Small Heath in the day when Evergreen run it.
Though it increases to half hourly when its operated by NX in the evenings as the full 28 (Small Heath - Old Oscott).
Also if kept as a single route, I think this looks like a nice idea for the 28A personally.
https://www.google.co.uk/maps/dir/52.4931109,-1.8181421/52.4977213,-1.8305363/52.4803313,-1.8328186/@52.4942118,-1.8268239,15z/data=!4m30!4m29!1m10!3m4!1m2!1d-1.8208825!2d52.4963236!3s0x4870bae78f55d42f:0x57917b636239a8dc!3m4!1m2!1d-1.828144!2d52.4954956!3s0x4870bae089a71d8f:0xf16085f788d08360!1m15!3m4!1m2!1d-1.8311617!2d52.4979278!3s0x4870badf8a3b2181:0x55e932d6d3134d43!3m4!1m2!1d-1.8332593!2d52.5004921!3s0x4870bb2094a89317:0x12907c6050e68db7!3m4!1m2!1d-1.8395059!2d52.4965417!3s0x4870bb2272afbd41:0x8c0c1702a6fa9b51!1m0!3e0
Rather than following the same route as NX 28 on the Alum Rock Road.
And would put a service at those stops on Drews Lane from when the 72 was taken off there. And people living on Sladefield Road/Ingleton Road getting a bus service, which I don't think have had one before. Might be more attractive, having a bus route down peoples streets. And looks like a nice route I think as well.
So a Small Heath to Bromford route?
Turning there at fox & goose could be problematic
Quote from: Busboy105 on November 20, 2020, 06:49:48 PM
So a Small Heath to Bromford route?
Small Heath to Ward End Park then Fox and Goose is what I thought of. Serving Ward End Park/Fire Station area and Drews Lane on the way instead of Alum Rock Road.
Though could go via Bromford on the way to Fox and Goose on top of that and replace 25 route maybe, but i'd think it would take a bit longer then?
Quote from: Steveminor on November 20, 2020, 06:50:10 PM
Turning there at fox & goose could be problematic
Turning where? 25 does u turn on Washwood Heath Road to turn around, if that's what you mean? And i've seen PB Gemini turn there in the past as well. By Southern Road.
Quote from: 2206 on November 20, 2020, 05:10:16 PM
28A is already hourly to Small Heath in the day when Evergreen run it.
Though it increases to half hourly when its operated by NX in the evenings as the full 28 (Small Heath - Old Oscott).
Also if kept as a single route, I think this looks like a nice idea for the 28A personally.
https://www.google.co.uk/maps/dir/52.4931109,-1.8181421/52.4977213,-1.8305363/52.4803313,-1.8328186/@52.4942118,-1.8268239,15z/data=!4m30!4m29!1m10!3m4!1m2!1d-1.8208825!2d52.4963236!3s0x4870bae78f55d42f:0x57917b636239a8dc!3m4!1m2!1d-1.828144!2d52.4954956!3s0x4870bae089a71d8f:0xf16085f788d08360!1m15!3m4!1m2!1d-1.8311617!2d52.4979278!3s0x4870badf8a3b2181:0x55e932d6d3134d43!3m4!1m2!1d-1.8332593!2d52.5004921!3s0x4870bb2094a89317:0x12907c6050e68db7!3m4!1m2!1d-1.8395059!2d52.4965417!3s0x4870bb2272afbd41:0x8c0c1702a6fa9b51!1m0!3e0
Rather than following the same route as NX 28 on the Alum Rock Road.
And would put a service at those stops on Drews Lane from when the 72 was taken off there. And people living on Sladefield Road/Ingleton Road getting a bus service, which I don't think have had one before. Might be more attractive, having a bus route down peoples streets. And looks like a nice route I think as well.
I feel for the poor bus driver you'd be sending down Sladefield Road.
Quote from: Steveminor on November 20, 2020, 06:50:10 PM
Turning there at fox & goose could be problematic
The old, old, old 98 used to do a u-turn at the junction of Washwood Heath Road/Southern Road. And if that wasn't desirable, you could right-turn onto Washwood Heath Road, left turn onto Alum Rock Road, left turn Burney Lane, left turn Stechford Lane. Or even send it down to terminate at Stechford Retail Park (when the roadworks are done).
I can't believe people are getting so worked up over a contracted service that hardly anyone uses, hence why it is contracted.
Does anyone here actually use the 28A? Or the 53 for that matter?
They are both tendered services so it will be up to TfWM to decide who ends up operating them, based on which operators bid for those contracts.
If Evergreen are unable to operate these services from January 2021 due to the outcome of this PI decision, the most likely outcome is that the services will pass to other operators 'as is' with no changes to route or timetable.
Quote from: ellspurs on November 20, 2020, 07:09:34 PM
The old, old, old 98 used to do a u-turn at the junction of Washwood Heath Road/Southern Road. And if that wasn't desirable, you could right-turn onto Washwood Heath Road, left turn onto Alum Rock Road, left turn Burney Lane, left turn Stechford Lane. Or even send it down to terminate at Stechford Retail Park (when the roadworks are done).
Roadworks are due to finish in December from what I remember, so should be possible. It going to Stechford Retail Park could be a good idea, to try and get new passengers onto the route as well.
Quote from: Stu on November 20, 2020, 08:26:00 PM
Does anyone here actually use the 28A? Or the 53 for that matter?
I certainly would use it if it took the proposed route, one of the reasons I suggested it as well. Ward End Park - Heartlands/Small Heath sounds a useful link I think as well.
Have evergreen coaches lost the school contracts also I.e hagley school Coventry schools ?
Quote from: Nxwm on November 20, 2020, 11:04:45 PM
Have evergreen coaches lost the school contracts also I.e hagley school Coventry schools ?
Given the fact that they will no longer have an operators licence, they will lose school contracts.
Quote from: Nxwm on November 20, 2020, 11:04:45 PM
Have evergreen coaches lost the school contracts also I.e hagley school Coventry schools ?
Their licence is revoked from January 2021 so they can continue to operate these services until then, unless the schools come up with new arrangements prior to that date.
Quote from: Stu on November 21, 2020, 10:26:38 AM
Their licence is revoked from January 2021 so they can continue to operate these services until then, unless the schools come up with new arrangements prior to that date.
Could the schools be the contracts that was being referred to in regards to the NXWM Streetdecks?
Seen YX18 KVR on the 53 this afternoon. They have slightly fixed the destination to now say "To Smithswood".
It also continued down Auckland Drive and completely ignored Lanchester Way, and had its display off before it reached the terminus.
Any idea whose had the tender for the 28A service?
Noone as thandi are appealing the t.c decision
Quote from: Steveminor on December 08, 2020, 12:13:05 PM
Noone as thandi are appealing the t.c decision
Any idea how long an appeal takes? Will they still have to cease operations come January, or does the appeal put a pause on that until it's dealt with?
Quote from: DJ on December 08, 2020, 01:42:48 PM
Any idea how long an appeal takes? Will they still have to cease operations come January, or does the appeal put a pause on that until it's dealt with?
An appeal stops the need to cease trading
Quote from: Tony on December 08, 2020, 02:29:50 PM
An appeal stops the need to cease trading
Cheers for clearing that up
Where are they now? Went past the hawthorns and nothing in the yard.
Quote from: BN on December 08, 2020, 06:55:50 PM
Where are they now? Went past the hawthorns and nothing in the yard.
back at Alma at where they was before
I seen 6 of Thandi coaches leaving the depot heard the have been taken back by the dealer
nice to see one of the scanias on the 53 today THZ1858 im presuming this one was YV03PZY
Quote from: cris 99 on January 19, 2021, 12:44:36 PM
nice to see one of the scanias on the 53 today THZ1858 im presuming this one was YV03PZY
They've put a decker on the 53? I'd love to have seen that squeezing its way around Middle Leaford, especially when the Lynx's used to have to shunt at the junction of Middle Leaford and Glebe Farm Road due to the parking.
Theyve actullay used them on there a few times lol wud love to actually ride it to town when current restrictions are over. i Remember middle leaford well lol bus 98/689 if my memory serves
Isn't paper displays something especially on a tendered route is frowned on by TfWM?
Quote from: ellspurs on January 19, 2021, 01:14:43 PM
They've put a decker on the 53? I'd love to have seen that squeezing its way around Middle Leaford, especially when the Lynx's used to have to shunt at the junction of Middle Leaford and Glebe Farm Road due to the parking.
I'm not sure how they cope, as I've never done one on there, but Thandi have put an OmniDekka on the 53 in the past.
Quote from: ellspurs on January 19, 2021, 01:14:43 PM
They've put a decker on the 53? I'd love to have seen that squeezing its way around Middle Leaford, especially when the Lynx's used to have to shunt at the junction of Middle Leaford and Glebe Farm Road due to the parking.
I thought the licence was revoked from 1.1.21?
Quote from: BN on January 19, 2021, 07:03:12 PM
I thought the licence was revoked from 1.1.21?
They're appealing I think.
"STAY GRANTED PENDING APPEAL"
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/written-decision-for-thandi-coaches-red-ltd-pd0000154
Quote from: SL 16 YPN on January 19, 2021, 05:41:22 PM
Isn't paper displays something especially on a tendered route is frowned on by TfWM?
I don't think the 28A bus has ever had a working display.
I presume that this vehicle isn't Euro 6 compliant and whether it is suitable for the tender (depending on what TfWM have awarded the contract on)?
Quote from: SL 16 YPN on January 19, 2021, 05:41:22 PM
Isn't paper displays something especially on a tendered route is frowned on by TfWM?
Correct. Set out in their AQPS rules. My pet hate! Operators should make every effort to make sure that their destination blinds work correctly and are programmed to the correct routes. Although, having said that, TfWM never seem to enforce all their AQPS rules, such as the fact that drivers must be in company uniform. I'm forever seeing drivers wearing 'everyday' clothes. What's the point in having these rules if they aren't enforced?
Quote from: Pat on January 19, 2021, 07:40:25 PM
I presume that this vehicle isn't Euro 6 compliant and whether it is suitable for the tender (depending on what TfWM have awarded the contract on)?
Correct. Set out in their AQPS rules. My pet hate! Operators should make every effort to make sure that their destination blinds work correctly and are programmed to the correct routes. Although, having said that, TfWM never seem to enforce all their AQPS rules, such as the fact that drivers must be in company uniform. I'm forever seeing drivers wearing 'everyday' clothes. What's the point in having these rules if they aren't enforced?
They have far more important things to worry about like making sure people know the 35 uses Moor Street Queensway for 20 metres.
Quote from: V89MOA on January 19, 2021, 08:09:47 PM
They have far more important things to worry about like making sure people know the 35 uses Moor Street Queensway for 20 metres.
Is that a dig at waht I've been saying in another topic?
@V89MOA
Quote from: Bus Man K2 on January 19, 2021, 08:29:04 PM
Is that a dig at waht I've been saying in another topic? @V89MOA
Absolutely not.
Quote from: V89MOA on January 19, 2021, 08:43:07 PM
Absolutely not.
That's ok... I'm just so used to people having a pop at meI thought you were!!! 😁 Sorry
@V89MOA
Quote from: cris 99 on January 19, 2021, 12:44:36 PM
nice to see one of the scanias on the 53 today THZ1858 im presuming this one was YV03PZY
Was on yesterday also
It's been on.there for a while, cant recall seeing the mmc for a while now
Quote from: 2206 on January 19, 2021, 07:05:33 PM
They're appealing I think.
"STAY GRANTED PENDING APPEAL"
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/written-decision-for-thandi-coaches-red-ltd-pd0000154I don't think the 28A bus has ever had a working display.
That notice says that they renamed themselves "Thandi (Red)" in 2019. Does the title of this thread need to be changed to reflect that?
The normal buses are back on the route again. The one I saw on Monday was off to "Smithwood" as per standard.
The other one, pictured here on Google (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@52.4880502,-1.8410101,3a,35.6y,238.45h,79.55t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sSdDKwlU-fv2stDAgaZxPQg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192) has "To Smithswood" on it. I wish they'd be consistent
Really!! Decker was out yesterday
Quote from: ellspurs on January 20, 2021, 02:51:29 AM
That notice says that they renamed themselves "Thandi (Red)" in 2019. Does the title of this thread need to be changed to reflect that?
The link that
@2206 provided doesnt like to a working page... I don't know if that's because the page doesn't exist or if it's been moved? But I'd assume this topic will have to be renamed at some point...😁
Quote from: Bus Man K2 on January 30, 2021, 05:03:17 PM
The link that @2206 provided doesnt like to a working page... I don't know if that's because the page doesn't exist or if it's been moved? But I'd assume this topic will have to be renamed at some point...😁
There's an erroneous 'I' at the end of the URL, correct link here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/written-decision-for-thandi-coaches-red-ltd-pd0000154
Quote from: V102MOA on January 30, 2021, 05:16:25 PM
There's an erroneous 'I' at the end of the URL, correct link here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/written-decision-for-thandi-coaches-red-ltd-pd0000154
Thanks
@V102MOA.
I can see the page now. I never relosed the like wasn't working in the first place!!
A 1997 episode of Dalziel and Pascoe currently on Drama featured Scania H639VNW passing Walsall Town Hall. G644 gives it from First Glasgow 1/08!
.
A previous episode featured a Yorkshire Traction Metrobus together with a Metro bus stop flag, so I assumed they had gone to Yorkshire for location establishing shots, but clearly not in this case.
A building at the crossing of the 14/97 featured as a cop shop in Dalziel and Pascoe (* or maybe some other yawn-inducing law fodder). I went past whilst filming, but found the two FaTTS 'deckers in the Lidl car park more entertaining...
At Ward End earlier at about 10:20 I noticed a red (might be ex london) E200 turning left onto the Washwood Heath Road from Stechford Lane.
Which matches up with the tracking for the 28A bus, so it looks likely that it was on the 28A, as its shown as tracking at Ward End at 10:18:58 and same time 4614 was there waiting its departure time. Presumably they've took the ticket machine out of the scania as well, which is why it'd be tracking as X21BUS.
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/200010?date=2021-03-16#journeys/114633291
Edit - Same dual door E200 on Bromford Lane, crossing St Margarets Rd junction at 18:20 this evening running dead back to the depot from the 28A.
any one know if they have sold the scaina & if so who now owns it
Wander if they will ever put a proper destination display in GN08CHC?
It just has a 28A number stuck on it on the front at the top right and rear, where the destination displays would be.
The other on on the 53 has the same lol GN08CGV in yellow numbers.
Quote from: cris 99 on March 24, 2021, 07:39:17 AM
The other on on the 53 has the same lol GN08CGV in yellow numbers.
I've seen this bus three times today. It is tracking on busmaps as SN66 WJY. You can see the remains of an Arriva sticker above the driver's window.
It has the 53 stuck over the top right of the matrix. Funnily enough, you can see underneath the sticker and the "53" is there on full display. One direction it is showing "CITY CENTRE 53" and in the other direction "SMITHSWOOD 53".
I was happy to see passengers on it at each point I saw it in service (Chester Road/Hurst Lane junction, Green Lane) and lastly at the Lanchester Road terminus. I had never seen a passenger on there in Smith's Wood before.
Both of the 53's today are not going both ways around Lanchester Way, preferring to drive straight along Auckland Drive to the terminus before going around Lanchester Way.
Quote from: Solo1 on March 17, 2021, 10:22:00 PM
any one know if they have sold the scaina & if so who now owns it
The Scania X21BUS was at Ward End on the 28A today.
surprised theyve still got that with the 6 E200s theyve got
I just randomly clicked on bustimes to see whether the registrations for these services were still active, and the map is showing the 53 taking the direct route down Auckland Drive once again instead of going around Lanchester Way. It kinda makes me think that TfWM have asked NX to amend the 96 to go around Lanchester Way as the 53 doesn't always follows the right route.
Looking at the map of the bus (https://bustimes.org/vehicles/281240?date=2021-08-16#journeys/158165198) for today shows it as hit-and-miss, and a random journey where they skipped out Alum Rock Road.
Quote from: ellspurs on August 16, 2021, 03:15:30 PM
I just randomly clicked on bustimes to see whether the registrations for these services were still active, and the map is showing the 53 taking the direct route down Auckland Drive once again instead of going around Lanchester Way. It kinda makes me think that TfWM have asked NX to amend the 96 to go around Lanchester Way as the 53 doesn't always follows the right route.
Looking at the map of the bus (https://bustimes.org/vehicles/281240?date=2021-08-16#journeys/158165198) for today shows it as hit-and-miss, and a random journey where they skipped out Alum Rock Road.
As its run under contract to TFWM, you'd think they could tell them what route to use anyway.
I've seen the 53 on Washwood Heath Rd before when there are traffic problems, parked up out of service at about 9.00 in the morning with 53 on it/running dead, etc.
The other week the 53 infront of the 94 had "28A" on the back of it as well on Nechells Parkway.
I don't know what usage is like on it but maybe 53 could be cut back to run City Centre - Bucklands End, if the 96 is going to cover the onward section?
Quote from: ellspurs on August 16, 2021, 03:15:30 PM
I just randomly clicked on bustimes to see whether the registrations for these services were still active, and the map is showing the 53 taking the direct route down Auckland Drive once again instead of going around Lanchester Way. It kinda makes me think that TfWM have asked NX to amend the 96 to go around Lanchester Way as the 53 doesn't always follows the right route.
Looking at the map of the bus (https://bustimes.org/vehicles/281240?date=2021-08-16#journeys/158165198) for today shows it as hit-and-miss, and a random journey where they skipped out Alum Rock Road.
I noticed another one running dead this evening on Adderley Rd while on 94, though on Bus Times it was tracking as 53. I think they are running dead due to reliability/traffic problems
@ellspurs.
Quote from: 2206 on August 16, 2021, 03:56:27 PM
As its run under contract to TFWM, you'd think they could tell them what route to use anyway.
I've seen the 53 on Washwood Heath Rd before when there are traffic problems, parked up out of service at about 9.00 in the morning with 53 on it/running dead, etc.
The other week the 53 infront of the 94 had "28A" on the back of it as well on Nechells Parkway.
I don't know what usage is like on it but maybe 53 could be cut back to run City Centre - Bucklands End, if the 96 is going to cover the onward section?
Usage this end (Smith's Wood/Castle Bromwich) is generally 0-1 people. Doubt that anyone catches it on Lanchester Way due to the unreliability of the bus actually turning up there. I find it funny that the first three stops on Lanchester Way still have their shelters from when the 962/994 ran there. Buses have barely been up there since, and other places that had shelters (on Windward Way, straight on where the X12 turns onto the slip road for Chester Road) had the stops removed completely.
Quote from: ellspurs on August 17, 2021, 06:39:30 PM
Usage this end (Smith's Wood/Castle Bromwich) is generally 0-1 people. Doubt that anyone catches it on Lanchester Way due to the unreliability of the bus actually turning up there. I find it funny that the first three stops on Lanchester Way still have their shelters from when the 962/994 ran there. Buses have barely been up there since, and other places that had shelters (on Windward Way, straight on where the X12 turns onto the slip road for Chester Road) had the stops removed completely.
They removed the shelter on Drews Lane, when the 72 stopped running as well I believe.
There are other underused shelters about I think, one on Stuarts Road Stechford ex 53 - now out of use I believe, there's another out of use on Fort Parkway, etc. Those 2 always stood out I think.
On Yardley Green Road the 28/28A have a shelter and there's another out of use one behind the 17 stop.
Infact I just remembered the opposite stop on Yardley Green Road has the number 891 on it. I don't think they normally list school services on the flags.
If usage is that bad, cutting it back to Bucklands End would probably be a good idea to improve reliability.
News is Thandi (red) are buying Thandi (blue) double deckers for Hayley schools
Very pleasantly surprised to see the 10:05 from Smith's Wood today actually go up Lanchester Way. Too bad it departed six minutes late.
Quote from: Nxwm on August 20, 2021, 10:55:17 PM
News is Thandi (red) are buying Thandi (blue) double deckers for Hayley schools
how come thandi blue has lost the contract for sandwell academy school
Oh I caught the 53 today. Driver turfed me off on Bordesley Green Road as he was apparently only going to the hospital. Got off to wait for a 97. The other guy at the stop waiting weren't allowed to get on. When I got off the 53 the next 97 to Birmingham was on Bosworth Drive, but now that's disappeared off the tracking. There are three 97s at Pine Square.
This is not good.
Fake edit: the Birmingham bound one has reappeared on the tracking. The guy that was waiting with me gave up and started to walk up. Hopefully I'll be able to get on this one as he said he had been waiting 20 minutes before I got there.
The tracking is only showing one bus on the 53 route today, but I haven't seen the bus I was on turn around and come back, he has followed the route through to the city centre.
The Thandi Coaches (Red) Ltd operator license is showing as Surrendered on the Gov.uk site - https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/view-details/licence/117730
They have another license issued
Quote from: Solo1 on October 08, 2021, 09:12:27 AM
They have another license issued
They have 'Thandi Red Limited', which the 424 is registered under, but the 53 and 28A are registered under the one that's been surrendered.
I'm interested to know if the vehicles on the 424 have had their legals updated to reflect this, but I'm guessing not.
Quote from: DJ on October 08, 2021, 07:44:19 PM
They have 'Thandi Red Limited', which the 424 is registered under, but the 53 and 28A are registered under the one that's been surrendered.
I'm interested to know if the vehicles on the 424 have had their legals updated to reflect this, but I'm guessing not.
In addition to this, if TFWMs contracts are with the previous business for 28A and 53, then the contracts are invalid unless a novation has been agreed
28A hasn't run for so long now (apart from the occasional token appearance) that it doesn't really matter. 53 normally runs with only 1 out of the 2 buses on it as well
Quote from: Steveminor on October 08, 2021, 08:33:06 PM
28A hasn't run for so long now (apart from the occasional token appearance) that it doesn't really matter. 53 normally runs with only 1 out of the 2 buses on it as well
Are you sure they haven't been running? I think thandi had a red E200 with 28A on the back and a white E200 on the 53 and 28A sometimes saw Scania X21BUS as well as a E200.
If they haven't been running them, wouldn't they be retendered, as you'd have NX operating evening trips after 6PM but nothing in the day?
Or is this based on bus times tracking which might not be correct?
Quote from: 2206 on October 08, 2021, 08:37:56 PM
Are you sure they haven't been running? I think thandi had a red E200 with 28A on the back and a white E200 on the 53 and 28A sometimes saw Scania X21BUS as well as a E200.
If they haven't been running them, wouldn't they be retendered, as you'd have NX operating evening trips after 6PM but nothing in the day?
Or is this based on bus times tracking which might not be correct?
seen X21 BUS on monday on 28A
Quote from: SK68MEV on October 08, 2021, 08:55:43 PM
seen X21 BUS on monday on 28A
Thanks and i'm sure I was sure I saw it in on the Washwood Heath Rd running dead on Tuesday.
I would think its therefore the bus not tracking rather than the operator failing to operate the contract.
Which is probably why you should only post what you see in person
@Steveminor.
Well I do know that the weekend I went to Birmingham, there was only one 53 running on the route and the driver stopped at Heartlands Hospital and ran back to the garage. I didn't see any other bus coming the opposite way.
Quote from: SK68MEV on October 08, 2021, 08:55:43 PM
seen X21 BUS on monday on 28A
It was running both the last two times I was at the Fox and Goose in
My own observations & taking questions from intending passengers asking "if rhe bus is running today"
I don't take everything from bustimes.org as it is only acurarate to a point, obviously if a bus is running without a ticketer machine fitted or 8f the machine has failed then the bus doesn't track.
No buses on 28A today, any other operator taking the route?
As its a Tfwm tender thats for tfwm to decide, I certainly wouldn't think it would be commercially viable for anyone
Quote from: Jack D on October 12, 2021, 09:51:08 AM
No buses on 28A today, any other operator taking the route?
Only one bus tracking on the 424 as well, so may be one missing from there
Quote from: Jack D on October 12, 2021, 09:51:08 AM
No buses on 28A today, any other operator taking the route?
Quote from: Tony on October 12, 2021, 10:44:45 AM
Only one bus tracking on the 424 as well, so may be one missing from there
BusTimes only list 6 vehicles for them, three of which haven't tracked for some time:
https://bustimes.org/operators/evergreen-coaches-ltd/vehicles
Or perhaps other vehicles are being used that don't track?
Quote from: Stu on October 12, 2021, 10:53:15 AM
BusTimes only list 6 vehicles for them, three of which haven't tracked for some time:
https://bustimes.org/operators/evergreen-coaches-ltd/vehicles
Or perhaps other vehicles are being used that don't track?
The Scania doesn't track, but that would be fun trying to get around the 424 route
Too true
@Tony.
Passenger complaint received suggests there is only 1 bus on 424 today passengers comment "not the first time I've stood waiting over an hour for this bus"
Quote from: Tony on October 12, 2021, 10:44:45 AM
Only one bus tracking on the 424 as well, so may be one missing from there
2 buses are tracking
GN08 CGY (tracking as a Let's Go vehicle)
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/286941
GN08 CGX
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/282650
CHD is now out on 28A just saw it at Fox and Goose
Quote from: BNH2004 on October 12, 2021, 11:13:59 AM
2 buses are tracking
GN08 CGY (tracking as a Let's Go vehicle)
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/286941
GN08 CGX
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/282650
Looks like this passenger was standing in the wrong place
Quote from: Steveminor on October 12, 2021, 11:00:53 AM
Too true @Tony.
Passenger complaint received suggests there is only 1 bus on 424 today passengers comment "not the first time I've stood waiting over an hour for this bus"
Results of the appeal are reported here
https://www.route-one.net/legal/thandi-coaches-red-case-to-be-reconsidered/?utm_source=routeone&utm_campaign=e3db780af2-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2021_09_16_11_02_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_584b65a2d5-e3db780af2-99272977
Services 28A & 53 withdrawn from 31st October & replaced with new service 93 operated by Diamond.
It's a shame the link from city centre would be gone, also shard end shops has lost the service alot of people use, perhaps 96 could re route up to shard end shops
Quote from: Jack D on October 29, 2021, 01:37:18 PM
It's a shame the link from city centre would be gone, also shard end shops has lost the service alot of people use, perhaps 96 could re route up to shard end shops
Do you use the 53 service? I'm sure this decision hasn't been taken lightly, and has been justified by TfWM's own passenger data.
I do use the 53 service from shard end shops to jacks all the time
Quote from: Jack D on October 29, 2021, 07:56:28 PM
I do use the 53 service from shard end shops to jacks all the time
For the time being you'll need to walk one stop up the road to get the 96 instead.
Their E200 GN08CHC was leaving the City Centre to go back to the depot out of service at 15:30 today via Snow Hill Queensway. Presumably leaving the City Centre for the final time to.
Quote from: Jack D on October 29, 2021, 07:56:28 PM
I do use the 53 service from shard end shops to jacks all the time
I have no idea what 'jacks' is, but thanks for confirming that you actually do use this service.
Quote from: Stu on October 30, 2021, 06:00:40 PM
I have no idea what 'jacks' is
Its a shop on Chester Rd in Castle Bromwich. 94 goes past it.
Quote from: Stu on October 30, 2021, 06:00:40 PM
I have no idea what 'jacks' is, but thanks for confirming that you actually do use this service.
It's the Tesco version of Aldi/Lidl. There's one in Rubery as well, of 13 in the country.
Jacks was a school playground game "when I were a lad" . . . . . . . . mostly played my girls I hasten to add.
wonder what they will do with the other enviros as they havn't had them long as 2 for 424
Have Thandi still got the adl 93 seater ?
Noticed thandi have a white B7RLE currently parked up outside University Station. Registration H13MNY.
Does anyone know what the original registration of it is?
Quote from: 2206 on March 03, 2025, 10:59:07 PMNoticed thandi have a white B7RLE currently parked up outside University Station. Registration H13MNY.
Does anyone know what the original registration of it is?
YJ05 UKR
Ex Reliance of York
Today they are using a red ex London Volvo B9TL on the university contract BV10WW?
Quote from: 2206 on March 31, 2025, 10:41:30 PMToday they are using a red ex London Volvo B9TL on the university contract BV10WW?
What is the University contact?
Quote from: fleetline6477 on April 01, 2025, 09:03:41 PMWhat is the University contact?
https://www.guildofstudents.com/sellyexpress/