WM Bus Photos Forum

West Midlands Buses in Discussion => National Express West Midlands => Topic started by: danny on May 05, 2012, 09:47:59 PM

Title: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: danny on May 05, 2012, 09:47:59 PM
Ok, if you could see something happen in the next 5 years what would it be, it can be as silly or serious as you want, you might want a ne bus type, new routes, new termimuses, re introducee the guided busway, throwing it out their for young and old please don't critisise this is just for fun you could put hoverbuses lol
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: 4504 on May 05, 2012, 09:53:16 PM
tridents with LEDs and plaxton presidents fitted with trident 2 engines.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: danny on May 05, 2012, 09:58:09 PM
I have seen a trident with orange led and it does make them look rather smart
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: 4504 on May 05, 2012, 10:02:15 PM
Yeah, they look a lot better. I would also put LEDs on mercs.
This isn't relevant, but I (London Midland) would buy some Class 379s to replace the 323s, just give them to FGW or arriva train wales.

Quote from: danny on May 05, 2012, 09:58:09 PM
I have seen a trident with orange led and it does make them look rather smart
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Justin Tyme on May 05, 2012, 10:12:21 PM
I would be delighted to see: -


Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Tony on May 05, 2012, 10:20:10 PM
Automatic ejector seats for anti-social behaviour
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: danny on May 05, 2012, 10:24:35 PM
Haha nice one ;D
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: 4504 on May 05, 2012, 11:41:01 PM
Didn't the 09 enviros have a strip of tint over the windows, that could be replaced if etching occured? I heard that somewhere  :o

Quote from: Justin Tyme on May 05, 2012, 10:12:21 PM
I would be delighted to see: -

  • More bus lanes and priorities which really reduce journey times
  • Orders for new buses continuing at their current level
  • Mid-life bus refurbishment as standard (glad NXWM are making progress on this)
  • A central Bus Station in Birmingham for longer-distance bus services
  • A solution to window etching
  • A solution to steamed up windows in wet weather
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: richie on May 06, 2012, 08:29:14 AM
Quote from: 4504 on May 05, 2012, 11:41:01 PM
Didn't the 09 enviros have a strip of tint over the windows, that could be replaced if etching occured? I heard that somewhere  :o

Quote from: Justin Tyme on May 05, 2012, 10:12:21 PM
I would be delighted to see: -

  • More bus lanes and priorities which really reduce journey times
  • Orders for new buses continuing at their current level
  • Mid-life bus refurbishment as standard (glad NXWM are making progress on this)
  • A central Bus Station in Birmingham for longer-distance bus services
  • A solution to window etching
  • A solution to steamed up windows in wet weather

All Pensnett buses have it on even the B6's
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Nathan4775 on May 06, 2012, 02:05:52 PM
One Big Bus Station in the Centre of Birmingham
Perry Barr Garage - To gain B5L Hybrids to replace the Geminis on the 907/7/65 etc
Yardley Wood - To gain some better buses for the 35/50/49
Certain Services to be re-instated
Buses to be cleaned more often (Excpet AG as they already do this)
NXWM to invest in Some newer buses e.g. Evoultions, Hybrids etc etc
Brand more bus routes with proper branding were it goes & frequency
More bus lanes
More Limited stop routes

can think of more but I will just get carried away ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: arrifirststage on May 06, 2012, 02:41:53 PM
The end of ALL branding
A new livery for NXWM
Rotala taken over by Stagecoach
Return to pre 1986 regulation
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: lgr on May 06, 2012, 03:22:28 PM
Quote from: NathanJC on May 06, 2012, 02:05:52 PM
Yardley Wood - To gain some better buses for the 35/50/49

Better buses for the 50? Are the Enviro 400s not enough?
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: ilovetea4370 on May 06, 2012, 05:14:24 PM
All I would do is re-instate the old 3 route and give YW some of the BX56 B7RLE's and some B7TL's, Perhaps I'd do something to keep the B10Ls going for as long as possible too :P Not a particularly imaginative list but to list everything I'd want to do would take far too long!
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: 4504 on May 06, 2012, 06:56:40 PM
Go ahead, that's the objective of this thread  ;D

Quote from: NathanJC on May 06, 2012, 02:05:52 PM

One Big Bus Station in the Centre of Birmingham
Perry Barr Garage - To gain B5L Hybrids to replace the Geminis on the 907/7/65 etc
Yardley Wood - To gain some better buses for the 35/50/49
Certain Services to be re-instated
Buses to be cleaned more often (Excpet AG as they already do this)
NXWM to invest in Some newer buses e.g. Evoultions, Hybrids etc etc
Brand more bus routes with proper branding were it goes & frequency
More bus lanes
More Limited stop routes

can think of more but I will just get carried away ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Nathan4775 on May 06, 2012, 07:38:18 PM
Quote from: lgr on May 06, 2012, 03:22:28 PM
Quote from: NathanJC on May 06, 2012, 02:05:52 PM
Yardley Wood - To gain some better buses for the 35/50/49

Better buses for the 50? Are the Enviro 400s not enough?

They are, But i think they need upgrading now, becuase Tridents are operating on the 50 now more frequently, so it doesnt say much about the Enviros
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: nx4737 on May 07, 2012, 01:07:38 AM
Hmm... Where do I start...

-The whole NX fleet in ONE livery, I don't care which, the whole fleet in one is good enough!
-B6's, B10's and Mercs gone.
-Wright Gemini/B9's ordered instead of Enviro400's.
-Armed soldier at the back of every decker to deal with smokers/vandals.

Too much to ask?  ::)
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Tomjusttom on May 07, 2012, 01:08:45 PM

Quote from: nx4737 on May 07, 2012, 01:07:38 AM
Hmm... Where do I start...

-The whole NX fleet in ONE livery, I don't care which, the whole fleet in one is good enough!

Anyone able to photoshop a NXWM bus in one livery?
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Tony on May 07, 2012, 01:16:21 PM
Quote from: Tomjusttom on May 07, 2012, 01:08:45 PM

Quote from: nx4737 on May 07, 2012, 01:07:38 AM
Hmm... Where do I start...

-The whole NX fleet in ONE livery, I don't care which, the whole fleet in one is good enough!

Anyone able to photoshop a NXWM bus in one livery?

Not quite sure that is what he meant (just one livery not many); but yes ONE livery might look good on a bus.

I don't think I have actually put any photos of trains in ONE livery on the main site yet
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: jnl1984 on May 09, 2012, 10:28:40 AM
Real time information doing exactly what it should be doing for all services... not timetabled information where a service will 'disappear' should it be a minute late..
Voice information speakers on all routes (well majority) advising passengers where they are / what the name road is
Removal of irritants from the back of buses who play music that no one else wants to listen to.



Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: danny on May 09, 2012, 01:12:53 PM
AN Ftr route similar like York and more premiere bus routes
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: MW on May 09, 2012, 04:14:04 PM
Quote from: Tomjusttom on May 07, 2012, 01:08:45 PM

Quote from: nx4737 on May 07, 2012, 01:07:38 AM
Hmm... Where do I start...

-The whole NX fleet in ONE livery, I don't care which, the whole fleet in one is good enough!

Anyone able to photoshop a NXWM bus in one livery?

What do you mean photoshop a bus in one livery? Every bus is in a livery.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: richie on May 09, 2012, 04:27:38 PM
Quote from: Michael on May 09, 2012, 04:14:04 PM
Quote from: Tomjusttom on May 07, 2012, 01:08:45 PM

Quote from: nx4737 on May 07, 2012, 01:07:38 AM
Hmm... Where do I start...

-The whole NX fleet in ONE livery, I don't care which, the whole fleet in one is good enough!

Anyone able to photoshop a NXWM bus in one livery?

The ONE train brand!

What do you mean photoshop a bus in one livery? Every bus is in a livery.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: MW on May 09, 2012, 05:06:31 PM
Quote from: richie on May 09, 2012, 04:27:38 PM
Quote from: Michael on May 09, 2012, 04:14:04 PM
Quote from: Tomjusttom on May 07, 2012, 01:08:45 PM

Quote from: nx4737 on May 07, 2012, 01:07:38 AM
Hmm... Where do I start...

-The whole NX fleet in ONE livery, I don't care which, the whole fleet in one is good enough!

Anyone able to photoshop a NXWM bus in one livery?

The ONE train brand!

What do you mean photoshop a bus in one livery? Every bus is in a livery.


The original quote said I'd like to see the buses is one livery. I don't care which, but one livery.

What he means is a single livery across the whole fleet. I don't know where trains have come from.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: nx4737 on May 09, 2012, 07:11:24 PM
Quote from: Michael on May 09, 2012, 05:06:31 PM
Quote from: richie on May 09, 2012, 04:27:38 PM
Quote from: Michael on May 09, 2012, 04:14:04 PM
Quote from: Tomjusttom on May 07, 2012, 01:08:45 PM

Quote from: nx4737 on May 07, 2012, 01:07:38 AM
Hmm... Where do I start...

-The whole NX fleet in ONE livery, I don't care which, the whole fleet in one is good enough!

Anyone able to photoshop a NXWM bus in one livery?

The ONE train brand!

What do you mean photoshop a bus in one livery? Every bus is in a livery.


The original quote said I'd like to see the buses is one livery. I don't care which, but one livery.

What he means is a single livery across the whole fleet. I don't know where trains have come from.

It was a joke, ONE were a train operating company owned by NX.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: MW on May 09, 2012, 07:18:30 PM
Oh okay, I'm not a train enthusiast.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Nathan4775 on May 09, 2012, 07:38:05 PM
Quote from: jnl1984 on May 09, 2012, 10:28:40 AM
Real time information doing exactly what it should be doing for all services... not timetabled information where a service will 'disappear' should it be a minute late..
Voice information speakers on all routes (well majority) advising passengers where they are / what the name road is
Removal of irritants from the back of buses who play music that no one else wants to listen to.

Wasnt NXWM supposed to invesnt in voice information for the blind
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: 4504 on May 09, 2012, 10:13:48 PM
More trains between Stourbridge Junction & B'ham New Street
More trams in the Dudley and Brierly Hill areas, especially between Cradley Heath and Merry Hill
Dedicated timetables on the buses of branded buses, I.e. 14, 33, 51, X51
LCD screens on all buses, showing the map of the route and the current location of the bus
More smoke alarms on all buses
Cameras in bus stop to stop people vandalising and smoking
Better co-ordinated frequencies I.e. 65/67 (Sunday), 900/957 (Sunday), 9/126
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Tony on May 09, 2012, 10:26:13 PM
Quote from: 4504 on May 09, 2012, 10:13:48 PM
More trains between Stourbridge Junction & B'ham New Street

How many do you want? I would love 6 an hour
(in Hednesford with 1 an hour during the day!)
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: 4504 on May 09, 2012, 10:30:06 PM
I said to New St not Snow Hill. I'm completely content with the Snow Hill lines, it's just a fantasy  :D

Quote from: Tony on May 09, 2012, 10:26:13 PM
Quote from: 4504 on May 09, 2012, 10:13:48 PM
More trains between Stourbridge Junction & B'ham New Street

How many do you want? I would love 6 an hour
(in Hednesford with 1 an hour during the day!)
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Tony on May 09, 2012, 10:33:38 PM
I personally would prefer our trains to go to Snow Hill/Moor Street, at least you get a choice of which end of the City Centre you get off!
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: MW on May 09, 2012, 10:52:23 PM
A Mercedes S65 AMG in black with unlimited fuel. So I don't have to catch a public bus with a bunch of idiots taking ages to get there :)

Of course I'm an enthusiast but I hate catching the bus because of the lack of legroom, the smell of weed, the noisy morons, the annoying music, the drunks and a lot more.

So for that reason, I'm out.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: BU07 LGO on May 11, 2012, 01:19:21 AM
More local variety would be nice, i live in Pheasey and all routes now are Enviro operated, (except 451 and 651), a few years ago it was all gemini haha
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: nx4737 on May 11, 2012, 04:59:55 AM
Quote from: 4504 on May 09, 2012, 10:13:48 PM
More trains between Stourbridge Junction & B'ham New Street

Don't be lazy, get off at Moor Street and walk, it's not that far! LOL  ;D
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: 4504 on May 11, 2012, 04:06:52 PM
Sorry, did I go wrong somewhere. I thought this topic was for fun, what would you say to people with luggage having to drag it all the way to new street from moor street, I just noticed there's an unused line by the Smethwick junction, apart from, I think it's two trains a day.
Anyway, it was a thought for fun, because if this did happen, there would certainly be delays between Galton Bridge and Stourbridge Junction

Quote from: nx4737 on May 11, 2012, 04:59:55 AM
Quote from: 4504 on May 09, 2012, 10:13:48 PM
More trains between Stourbridge Junction & B'ham New Street

Don't be lazy, get off at Moor Street and walk, it's not that far! LOL  ;D
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: 4504 on May 11, 2012, 06:10:37 PM
Electronic route displays inside trains, i.e. LM class 323s, if Arriva and Great Western can install some, so can london midland  ;)
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Liberator9 on May 11, 2012, 09:32:21 PM
Well please don't mock this but:

Conductors make a return  - this is of course never going to happen to prevent vandalism
If the above happened, remove those rattly ticket machines
LED interior screens showing location and general information on all buses with multicolour exterior LED blinds
Wright to make a better version of the Wright Crusader and the Liberators. Same exterior design (front) with ZF gearbox but quieter and with modern interior
Wright reinstate the original Eclipse Urban as personally, preferred the front
Geminis to be fully refurbed with a new single best impressions livery.
All buses to have a new best impressions livery similar to Network Warrington.
Stagecoach design Enviro 300s, Mercedes Citaro and Temsa Avenues ordered
A UK Man Lion City made and a Foton BJ6123 (Chinese maker shown at
Interiors have some resistant material on seat backs to stop marks. Although new cleaning technology can now remove them
Bus makers ensure the buses are rattle free with better materials and some sort of insulation which absorbs shakes to prevent this getting through to the panels.
Car like seats fitted which are much more comfy!


And I think that's it! Just for fun though! So don't mock any of the above  ;)

Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Ash on May 11, 2012, 10:30:20 PM
The i-bus system similar to London would be good if this was to be installed i would trial it on the outercircle first telling people where to get off for other bus connections, town centre's and any other attractions and then if sucessful roll it out on all NXWM buses as standard like london.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Nathan4775 on May 12, 2012, 01:49:04 PM
 
DRIVERS actully run to their timetables
B1OL Ultras to return to YW for the 27/49
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: danny on May 12, 2012, 04:24:18 PM
Tempsa avenue?
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: SMK on May 12, 2012, 04:42:25 PM
The return of conductors (hopefully this would cut down on fare dodgers and anti-social behaviour).
The completion of the second phase of the Wolverhampton Interchange project.
More Enviros for PE.
Enviros for WN and WB.
Next stop announcements
More real time timetable displays (especially at Wolves bus station).
Express version of the 529 and 126.
Reduce the number of stops the 900 serves between the Small Heath Highway and the point at which the 60 turns off the A45
Express route between Wolves and Merry Hill.
Metro extensions to Walsall, Dudley, Merry Hill, Stourbridge, Halesowen, Chelmsley Wood, Birmingham Airport, and Coventry
Resurrection of the 333 route.
Extension of the 34 route to Wolves from it's current terminus in Stowlawn via the route the 334 used to take back in the 90s.
Arriva to take over Midland and thus expand their commercial routes.
Banga to have an all low-floor fleet   ;)
The withdrawal of the Spectras and for them to never return to Wolves again  ;D
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Tony on May 12, 2012, 08:46:40 PM
Quote from: NathanJC on May 12, 2012, 01:49:04 PM

DRIVERS actully run to their timetables
B1OL Ultras to return to YW for the 27/49

They haven't gone away from the 27
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Stu on May 13, 2012, 10:27:36 AM
He means the ex-gas Alexander Ultra B10Ls, which I was actually glad to see the back of as they were awful buses.  :-\
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Nathan4775 on May 13, 2012, 01:50:22 PM
Quote from: Stu on May 13, 2012, 10:27:36 AM
He means the ex-gas Alexander Ultra B10Ls, which I was actually glad to see the back of as they were awful buses.  :-\

I actully quite liked riding on them on a Evening Journey to Maypole
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: nx4737 on May 14, 2012, 03:56:24 PM
Quote from: 4504 on May 11, 2012, 04:06:52 PM
Sorry, did I go wrong somewhere. I thought this topic was for fun, what would you say to people with luggage having to drag it all the way to new street from moor street, I just noticed there's an unused line by the Smethwick junction, apart from, I think it's two trains a day.
Anyway, it was a thought for fun, because if this did happen, there would certainly be delays between Galton Bridge and Stourbridge Junction

Quote from: nx4737 on May 11, 2012, 04:59:55 AM
Quote from: 4504 on May 09, 2012, 10:13:48 PM
More trains between Stourbridge Junction & B'ham New Street

Don't be lazy, get off at Moor Street and walk, it's not that far! LOL  ;D

No offence intended, I was only joking  :)
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: 4504 on May 15, 2012, 12:19:57 AM
I agree, I really liked the gas b10ls

Quote from: NathanJC on May 13, 2012, 01:50:22 PM
Quote from: Stu on May 13, 2012, 10:27:36 AM
He means the ex-gas Alexander Ultra B10Ls, which I was actually glad to see the back of as they were awful buses.  :-\

I actully quite liked riding on them on a Evening Journey to Maypole
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Nathan4775 on May 15, 2012, 04:03:59 PM
Quote from: 4504 on May 15, 2012, 12:19:57 AM
I agree, I really liked the gas b10ls

Quote from: NathanJC on May 13, 2012, 01:50:22 PM
Quote from: Stu on May 13, 2012, 10:27:36 AM
He means the ex-gas Alexander Ultra B10Ls, which I was actually glad to see the back of as they were awful buses.  :-\

I actully quite liked riding on them on a Evening Journey to Maypole

All my favourite buses have/are being withdrawn
Gas B1OLs
B1OLS
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: 4504 on May 15, 2012, 10:39:08 PM
Trains


Buses
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: makkacdt on May 29, 2012, 01:37:33 AM
More bus lanes
A end to all anti social behavour
Refurbisment of older buses
Improvment in service reliabilty
Night Buses!!!!
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: danny on May 29, 2012, 04:13:10 AM
Oh Hell yes we need night buses back
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: makkacdt on May 30, 2012, 12:59:13 AM
to right be much better going to birmingham on a night out or a late night at work, many other countrys do it, why not us.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Badger on May 30, 2012, 02:15:09 PM
- The Midland Metro 5Ws line completed, to ease congestion on service 59
- New buses on services 25, 32, 33

QuoteArriva to take over Midland and thus expand their commercial routes.

Nooooooooooooooo
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Nathan4775 on May 30, 2012, 04:58:56 PM
Quote from: danny on May 29, 2012, 04:13:10 AM
Oh Hell yes we need night buses back

Didnt NXWM used to run night services anyways i remeber seeing the 904N & 51N along Corporation Street (67 route), might be wrong but  8)
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: monkeyjoe on May 30, 2012, 05:14:25 PM
They had a whole network of them for £1.50 a trip, Most starting from Colmore Row & Bull Street. Then later they tried starting them from Broad Street.

I suspect they stopped due to crime etc I could be wrong.

I used to use the 94N most weekends it was only for a short while, then another company took over and it was the 914n or something like that.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Discodave on August 11, 2012, 03:51:09 PM
Branding of all buses to be banned espically Arriva ones as they are never on the right routes (Cannock is the only garage which does it)
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Stu on August 11, 2012, 05:09:09 PM
I agree, I think that NXWM's brandings spoil the look of the bus, especially when they start using garish and badly-contrasting colour schemes.

Lets have all the fleet painted into red/white and leave off the brandings, they don't serve any useful purpose. The big LED display at the front gives a clue as to what bus it is anyway.  ;D

Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Bob on August 11, 2012, 05:41:18 PM
NXWM to return to Cannock and take over the Arriva services, the Chase Line shut and a return to limited stop buses every 20 mins from Cannock to Birmingham! Oh and Cannock to become part of the West Midlands, weve got far more in common with  it than Staffordshire ( Accent etc)
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Tony on August 11, 2012, 07:14:44 PM
Quote from: Stu on August 11, 2012, 05:09:09 PM

Lets have all the fleet painted into red/white and leave off the brandings, they don't serve any useful purpose.

That is apart from increasing passenger numbers and we wouldn't want that would we?
Haven't you noticed, the companys that are regularly praised on here, Trent, Go-Ahead, Nottingham, Brighton & Hove, all you garish coloured branding?
The reason being every large company in the country will tell you branding increases ridership!
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Ossie on August 12, 2012, 12:16:04 AM
1)  More evening services on NXWM after 18:30, especially Saturdays, these do seem to me to be getting less and less frequent in NE Birmingham.

2)  Resumption of the Wolverhampton - Walsall direct train link, even if it's just a Class 153 again.

And if you want a "fun" item - reopen all the closed depots still in existance .... Lea Hall, Selly Oak, Coventry Road, Cleveland Road for starters.  Are there any others?  Does Washwood Heath still exist?
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: JackC on August 12, 2012, 04:33:05 AM
Quote from: SMK on May 12, 2012, 04:42:25 PM
Arriva to take over Midland and thus expand their commercial routes.

Well what do you know, this one has actually come true. Maybe we can see some of the others coming true too! Some new buses at West Brom wouldn't go amiss.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Stu on August 12, 2012, 11:18:49 AM
Quote from: Tony on August 11, 2012, 07:14:44 PM
Quote from: Stu on August 11, 2012, 05:09:09 PM

Lets have all the fleet painted into red/white and leave off the brandings, they don't serve any useful purpose.

That is apart from increasing passenger numbers and we wouldn't want that would we?
Haven't you noticed, the companys that are regularly praised on here, Trent, Go-Ahead, Nottingham, Brighton & Hove, all you garish coloured branding?
The reason being every large company in the country will tell you branding increases ridership!

That was just my own opinion, and branding may appear to be doing a job, but I prefer to believe that a number of other factors are contributing to the increased passenger numbers we're seeing:


Again, just my own opinion, and after all, this thread is about 'what we'd like to see'. Route branding may be effective, but some people like it, some don't. My own observations are that people really don't pay any attention to them anyway, the same people that get on a bus with a big 'Solihull' on the front display, and then ask the driver if this bus goes to Solihull!  ;D
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Tony on August 12, 2012, 12:18:54 PM
Quote from: Stu on August 12, 2012, 11:18:49 AM
Quote from: Tony on August 11, 2012, 07:14:44 PM
Quote from: Stu on August 11, 2012, 05:09:09 PM

Lets have all the fleet painted into red/white and leave off the brandings, they don't serve any useful purpose.

That is apart from increasing passenger numbers and we wouldn't want that would we?
Haven't you noticed, the companys that are regularly praised on here, Trent, Go-Ahead, Nottingham, Brighton & Hove, all you garish coloured branding?
The reason being every large company in the country will tell you branding increases ridership!

That was just my own opinion, and branding may appear to be doing a job, but I prefer to believe that a number of other factors are contributing to the increased passenger numbers we're seeing:


  • The brand new buses
  • The network reviews, that have revised and introduced routes to meet passenger demands
  • The increase in real-time displays, and better timetable information at bus stops
  • And of course, the rising cost of fuel which is forcing more people to give up their cars and try public transport instead

Again, just my own opinion, and after all, this thread is about 'what we'd like to see'. Route branding may be effective, but some people like it, some don't. My own observations are that people really don't pay any attention to them anyway, the same people that get on a bus with a big 'Solihull' on the front display, and then ask the driver if this bus goes to Solihull!  ;D

I appreciate it is your wish it wasn't there which is what this topic is about, I was just replying to the last sentence that it doesn't do anything. I have never worked out why it does increase ridership, as you say there is a number and destination on the front, but it does!

On routes that serve a tourist attraction I can see that painting a large 'this bus goes to.... ' on the side will help but years ago the 590 was branded at Washwood Heath, no other improvements just a big sky blue band painted up the sides of some mark one metrobuses, but apparently passenger numbers increased when it was done!
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: BU07 LGO on August 12, 2012, 12:38:22 PM
I think highlighting how frequent a route is does help people who arent familiar to the bus service and may only see them driving around could tempt them to try it out
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: SMK on August 12, 2012, 04:07:39 PM
Quote from: JackC on August 12, 2012, 04:33:05 AM
Quote from: SMK on May 12, 2012, 04:42:25 PM
Arriva to take over Midland and thus expand their commercial routes.

Well what do you know, this one has actually come true. Maybe we can see some of the others coming true too! Some new buses at West Brom wouldn't go amiss.

I was just about to say that. ;D
I think I'll also add for them to get rid of the worst of their tatty Darts and Solos and/or refurb the interiors of those that badly need it.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Discodave on August 14, 2012, 12:01:19 PM
Someone with sense not just gid rid drop a bomb on cannocks fleet
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: nx4737 on September 03, 2012, 03:38:07 PM
Quote from: Discodave on August 14, 2012, 12:01:19 PM
Someone with sense not just gid rid drop a bomb on cannocks fleet

If they do, will you actually stop moaning about it?  ;D
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Badger on September 03, 2012, 04:30:16 PM
Just seen Banga have acquired another TWM solo. I'd like to see all of Banga's fleet replaced with ex WM solos to finally get rid of the horrid fleet they have right now. As my friend would say, "they're an absolute disgrace!". The "new" solos may be quite old but they're a damned sight better than the box mercs, looking quite shiny and respectable too.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Tomjusttom on September 04, 2012, 11:54:31 AM
I like Bangas breadvans.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Discodave on September 04, 2012, 11:57:23 AM
Quote from: nx4737 on September 03, 2012, 03:38:07 PM
Quote from: Discodave on August 14, 2012, 12:01:19 PM
Someone with sense not just gid rid drop a bomb on cannocks fleet

If they do, will you actually stop moaning about it?  ;D

Yes but it will never happen hence in this topic so no
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Andrew1991 on September 04, 2012, 03:18:53 PM
Quote from: Badger on September 03, 2012, 04:30:16 PM
Just seen Banga have acquired another TWM solo. I'd like to see all of Banga's fleet replaced with ex WM solos to finally get rid of the horrid fleet they have right now. As my friend would say, "they're an absolute disgrace!". The "new" solos may be quite old but they're a damned sight better than the box mercs, looking quite shiny and respectable too.

Looking a lot better than the twm ones too
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Westy on September 15, 2012, 07:22:52 PM
Quote from: A1991 on September 04, 2012, 03:18:53 PM
Quote from: Badger on September 03, 2012, 04:30:16 PM
Just seen Banga have acquired another TWM solo. I'd like to see all of Banga's fleet replaced with ex WM solos to finally get rid of the horrid fleet they have right now. As my friend would say, "they're an absolute disgrace!". The "new" solos may be quite old but they're a damned sight better than the box mercs, looking quite shiny and respectable too.

Looking a lot better than the twm ones too

Correct me if I'm wrong but I'm sure I read somewhere that any NXWM buses sold could not operate in the WM area for several years? If I'm right, that sounds daft!

Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Westy on September 15, 2012, 07:27:32 PM
Can we have the Walsall - Bloxwich 370 / 371 circulars back as we used to be able to catch one from Leamore Bloxwich Road right round to Beechdale Sainsburys without going into Walsall?

(Technically we live 20 mins walk from Sainsburys, but since they got rid of the 351, it's a pain in the bum to keep going via Walsall!)
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Discodave on September 15, 2012, 07:35:21 PM
Quote from: Westy on September 15, 2012, 07:22:52 PM
Quote from: A1991 on September 04, 2012, 03:18:53 PM
Quote from: Badger on September 03, 2012, 04:30:16 PM
Just seen Banga have acquired another TWM solo. I'd like to see all of Banga's fleet replaced with ex WM solos to finally get rid of the horrid fleet they have right now. As my friend would say, "they're an absolute disgrace!". The "new" solos may be quite old but they're a damned sight better than the box mercs, looking quite shiny and respectable too.

Looking a lot better than the twm ones too

I was told that when i was a NXWM driver too

Correct me if I'm wrong but I'm sure I read somewhere that any NXWM buses sold could not operate in the WM area for several years? If I'm right, that sounds daft!
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: JB93 on November 28, 2012, 07:15:11 PM
 - A central Birmingham bus station where all buses terminate, to allow easy transfers from one route to another without having to walk halfway across the city centre.
- The whole fleet painted into the NXWM livery - it just looks shabby at the moment with all these different liveries floating round.
- Bus services going a bit further out to serve outlying areas - don't have to be frequent, maybe just once an hour. e.g. a bus to Knowle,  -     Dorridge, Balsall Common, places like Alvechurch and Hednesfield. Maybe Bromsgrove, Cannock, Tamworth, Lichfield, Kidderminster. Bus links between the local areas and direct to Birmingham City Centre (you could make them limited stop routes into Birmingham).
- The end of the B6s, B10Ls, Mercs and maybe the Solos to be replaced by more modern buses e.g. Wright Streetlites, MCV Evolutions (not just the one at Pensnett) and more B7s.
- The reopening of Lea Hall Garage!! I lived right round the corner from it and was gutted when it closed. The routes that used to be there  probably would have gained better buses and branding etc. if they'd stayed as at the moment routes like the 94 and 14 are falling into disrepair with shabby buses. If they got rid of Bordesley garage (such a pointless little garage), repainted all the Omnilinks, and sent the 8 to BC, and the 17 and 55/A back to Lea Hall along with the 14, 94, 90, 56, 97 and 97A then there would surely be improvements!
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: jarh_9394 on November 28, 2012, 07:32:45 PM
Where's "Hednesfield"?
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: JB93 on November 28, 2012, 07:36:45 PM
Sorry, typo, I meant Hednesford.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Stu on November 28, 2012, 07:44:55 PM
Quote- A central Birmingham bus station where all buses terminate, to allow easy transfers from one route to another without having to walk halfway across the city centre.

You'd need a pretty big bus station, where would you put it?  ::)
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: JB93 on November 28, 2012, 07:48:59 PM
Maybe somewhere like where they're knocking down Paradise Forum? It would take a lot of tweaking but worth it in the end I'm sure.
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: Tony on November 28, 2012, 07:58:47 PM
Quote from: JB93 on November 28, 2012, 07:48:59 PM
Maybe somewhere like where they're knocking down Paradise Forum? It would take a lot of tweaking but worth it in the end I'm sure.

I don't think you quite realise the size it would have to be. It would also have major disadvantages to passengers. If you could build one at paradise forum and all buses from Dudley Road & Broad Street terminated in it there would be a long walk or a change of bus for just as many people as there is now with the various terminii, unless of course all buses also did a loop of the city before terminating there.

Then of course you would also fill the streets with buses as well as taking one massive piece of the City Centre out of commercial/road use!
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: danny on November 28, 2012, 10:23:58 PM
Good job this part of the forum was the fantasy fun page then lol, however, we had bull ring bus station, which got served by the ex midland red routes, so whata to say that one day in the future theor won't be a form of via station for the longer routes, maybe the distanceie ones, such as the.126 900, 51, sutton lines, solihul, dudley routes ect, intresting concepte, I like the idea
Title: Re: what would you like to see in the next 5 years, this if for FUN..
Post by: nitromatt1 on November 29, 2012, 12:43:23 AM
One of each type of bus to be put into the old Metrobus blue/white livery!