So the rumours have been confirmed as true, and NX Bus have announced today that they are reducing levels of service for more frequent services from Wednesday 25th March.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ETe7r2FXkAEEZE7?format=jpg&name=medium)
There is further detail on the NX Bus website:
https://nxbus.co.uk/west-midlands/information/service-changes/coronavirus-service-information-update-
I wrote a short article about the 'rumours' yesterday evening, which I have now updated:
https://westmidlandsbususers.co.uk/2020/03/opinion-reduced-service-levels-from-next-week/
What's really astonished me, especially after reading some of the replies to NX West Midlands' tweet today, is how people do not seem to read the whole statement, and take in and absorb what has been said.
I've had similar comments to this on my own Facebook page:
Quotehow are we going to get to work??
Erm, by bus?
QuoteCan I get my travel card refunded as if it is Sunday service I ain't going to be able to get to work. Work within the nhs proof available ! So no Sunday service please
It's not Sunday service! Read the bloody statement!
QuoteWill the 58 60 X1 X2 will be running to normal timetable.
This is probably a good reason why I don't do Twitter myself, because of all the stupid idiots who don't read things in full, just the headlines.
Let's just analyse NX Bus' press release a little.
QuoteNo bus routes are being taken off, we will just be running some of them less often.
This is the main bit that some people are struggling to understand. ???
QuoteOn all routes, times of first buses will be the same or within a few minutes of current times.
On all routes, there will be no change to the timings of the last bus.
Sunday services will remain as they are now.
Any National Express West Midlands all-night bus services will continue to operate.
Dedicated school routes will not be running due to the schools closing.
Quote...we are trying to minimise the disruption by taking buses off some of our more frequent services, but not making any changes to routes that run less often.
Unless I'm completely misinterpreting what is being said here, this just means that a service like the 50 that runs every 4 mins, will be reduced to run every 6 to 8 minutes.
Why people are whining about service levels being reduced is beyond me, after all NX Bus does this during school holiday periods anyway.
People WILL still be able to get to work, your bus might just run at a different time than usual due to amended timetable, and it might run every 15 minutes instead of every 10 minutes.
But in case you haven't noticed, there is far less traffic on the roads, and there are far fewer people using the buses.
This is just a simple case of 'supply' meeting 'demand'.
If your bus service starts at 5am and runs every half hour, it will continue to do so.
And as for the people asking "will xxx service be affected", which bit of "
Please do not contact us about these changes as our teams are working hard to finalise the details and information will be available on Monday" is so difficult to grasp?
Some people seriously need to get a grip. And read the FULL ARTICLE before making assumptions or asking silly questions.
Quote from: Stu on March 19, 2020, 07:52:07 PM
Unless I'm completely misinterpreting what is being said here, this just means that a service like the 50 that runs every 4 mins, will be reduced to run every 6 to 8 minutes.
Quote from: Stu on March 19, 2020, 07:52:07 PM
It's not Sunday service! Read the bloody statement!
@Stu see BG garage thread.
Official statement from National Express states:
Sunday service level for buses and Christmas Day service for coaches.
"These declines will be mitigated through significant network reductions, with UK coach reverting to a network similar to its Christmas Day service. This has the effect of removing up to 80% of capacity. UK bus is reducing its networks similar to a typical Sunday service, which amounts to the removal of around 40% of bus mileage."
Quote from: 2206 on March 19, 2020, 08:23:11 PM
@Stu see BG garage thread.
Official statement from National Express states:
Sunday service level for buses and Christmas Day service for coaches.
"These declines will be mitigated through significant network reductions, with UK coach reverting to a network similar to its Christmas Day service. This has the effect of removing up to 80% of capacity. UK bus is reducing its networks similar to a typical Sunday service, which amounts to the removal of around 40% of bus mileage."
Why does Stu need to see the BG garage thread (what is BG anyway).
He has just posted exact NXWM information, far more accurate than just 'Sunday service' level. I am presuming you are on of those he is referring to who doesn't bother reading what is posted.
Quote from: Tony on March 19, 2020, 08:39:50 PM
Why does Stu need to see the BG garage thread (what is BG anyway).
He has just posted exact NXWM information, far more accurate than just 'Sunday service' level. I am presuming you are on of those he is referring to who doesn't bother reading what is posted.
"Bordesley Green Garage" as the thread is titled.
I did read what has been announced and this:
"These declines will be mitigated through significant network reductions, with UK coach reverting to a network similar to its Christmas Day service. This has the effect of removing up to 80% of capacity. UK bus is reducing its networks similar to a typical Sunday service, which amounts to the removal of around 40% of bus mileage."
is exactly what National Express have announced here:
https://www.nationalexpressgroup.com/newsmedia/corporate-news/2020/covid-19-update/
Hardly something I have just made up.
Quote from: 2206 on March 19, 2020, 08:42:50 PM
"Bordesley Green Garage" as the thread is titled.
I did read what has been announced and this:
"These declines will be mitigated through significant network reductions, with UK coach reverting to a network similar to its Christmas Day service. This has the effect of removing up to 80% of capacity. UK bus is reducing its networks similar to a typical Sunday service, which amounts to the removal of around 40% of bus mileage."
is exactly what National Express have announced here:
https://www.nationalexpressgroup.com/newsmedia/corporate-news/2020/covid-19-update/
Hardly something I have just made up.
There's no BG or Bordesley Green garage. It is BY and Bordesley. Your link is just a general level of service. Stu' is taken from a far more detailed statement about services so doesn't need to refer to a general NX group one.
Quote from: Tony on March 19, 2020, 08:46:19 PM
There's no BG or Bordesley Green garage. It is BY and Bordesley. Your link is just a general level of service. Stu' is taken from a far more detailed statement about services so doesn't need to refer to a general NX group one.
Well I just called the thread by what it says. Perhaps it would be an idea to get it changed then.
And the NX website does also refer to it as "Bordesley Green" and i'm sure I've heard it referred to that when NX have made a call on the radio, while I've been on the bus.
https://nxbus.co.uk/routes/west-midlands/B055/?timetable[day]=monday_-_friday&timetable[direction]=Birmingham+-+Chelmsley+Wood+via+Ward+End&tab=
NXWM website gives no details on what frequency the 55 will be reduced to.
Quote from: Stu on March 19, 2020, 07:52:07 PM
Unless I'm completely misinterpreting what is being said here, this just means that a service like the 50 that runs every 4 mins, will be reduced to run every 6 to 8 minutes.
Since the general NX website states Sunday service levels you would assume it will be down to approximately every 20 minutes, rather than just a frequency reduction from something like every 8 to every 12 minutes, similar to that which normally occurs in school holidays as Stu was suggesting.
Also still lots of people using the buses today.
I'm going to miss my daily commute into Birmingham for work but with a vast majority of workers working from home, no schools a reduced service is need and hopefully it is only for a short time.
Quote from: 2206 on March 19, 2020, 08:49:20 PM
NXWM website gives no details on what frequency the 55 will be reduced to. Since the general NX website states Sunday service levels you would assume it will be down to approximately every 20 minutes, rather than just a frequency reduction from something like every 8 to every 12 minutes, similar to that which normally occurs in school holidays as Stu was suggesting.
Because if you had bothered to read Stu's posts It tells you the levels of service will be announced Monday!
Basically.
People can't read
People won't read
People are stupid
Took the 17 around 8:00AM. Usually this bus is packed but today it was half full. Felt a little creepy not going to lie.
As long the services stay the same for the NHS staff then they will be (obviously) fine with that but it would be better if NX kind enough to introduce early Sunday services for 19 and 48.
@Kevin has hit nail on the head. Just look at the toilet roll aisles, although that could now be any supermarket aisle.
Why are people assuming it's going to be a Saturday or Sunday service? There is no mention of that anywhere in the article.
Claribels has no plans to alter timetables at the moment but guys this situation is constantly evolving so any decision from any operator is subject to change at short notice.
Quote from: Steveminor on March 20, 2020, 01:00:47 AM
@Kevin has hit nail on the head. Just look at the toilet roll aisles, although that could now be any supermarket aisle.
Why are people assuming it's going to be a Saturday or Sunday service? There is no mention of that anywhere in the article.
Claribels has no plans to alter timetables at the moment but guys this situation is constantly evolving so any decision from any operator is subject to change at short notice.
There was a news article on the West Mids new. That article said that NX would be operating a Sat service during Mon-Fri service from next Wednesday. So all of you are throwing rubish posts on here when clearly some people on here are correct at being worried about services.
Quote from: Kevin on March 19, 2020, 10:05:15 PM
Basically.
People can't read
People won't read
People are stupid
There's no need for this post.
Quote from: Bus Man K2 on March 20, 2020, 06:54:40 AM
There's no need for this post.
There is as people ask the questions that have already been answered
I have to admit I haven't read the statement but wondered whether NX have considered running 'new' services specifically for NHS staff. They could link a number of health/NHS sites and run at specific times of the day identified in conjunction with the NHS. Just a thought but may be totally impracticable. As an afterthought we do it for Amazon staff at Christmas, I think, surely at this time where NHS and health workers are running on Adrenalin it's worth considering.
Quote from: RW on March 20, 2020, 08:59:18 AM
I have to admit I haven't read the statement but wondered whether NX have considered running 'new' services specifically for NHS staff. They could link a number of health/NHS sites and run at specific times of the day identified in conjunction with the NHS. Just a thought but may be totally impracticable. As an afterthought we do it for Amazon staff at Christmas, I think, surely at this time where NHS and health workers are running on Adrenalin it's worth considering.
There is no need to do this as there are no services being taken off! There are plenty of bus services that serve hospitals already, all that is happening is that some very frequent services will become slightly less frequent.
even at night time curtail buses earlier due to no pubs, clubs, theatres
Quote from: Ginger66 on March 20, 2020, 06:59:09 PM
even at night time curtail buses earlier due to no pubs, clubs, theatres
No. Nurses etc still need to get home
Quote from: Ginger66 on March 20, 2020, 06:59:09 PM
even at night time curtail buses earlier due to no pubs, clubs, theatres
Bus users at night aren't only pub, club and theatre goers!
First bus, early morning buses and late night buses and last bus must all remain the same.
Quote from: 2206 on March 19, 2020, 08:42:50 PM
I did read what has been announced and this:
"These declines will be mitigated through significant network reductions, with UK coach reverting to a network similar to its Christmas Day service. This has the effect of removing up to 80% of capacity. UK bus is reducing its networks similar to a typical Sunday service, which amounts to the removal of around 40% of bus mileage."
is exactly what National Express have announced here:
https://www.nationalexpressgroup.com/newsmedia/corporate-news/2020/covid-19-update/
Hardly something I have just made up.
I know you're not making this up, but there is a difference between a 'corporate press release' (which is what you are quoting), and an 'official statement' which NX have made to the travelling public.
If passenger numbers continue to decline over the coming weeks, then it is not unfeasible to expect that NX could reduce service levels further, perhaps down to Sunday levels, as per the mitigation measures in the corporate press release.
But for now, what I posted in the OP is straight from NX West Midlands and IS what is going to happen from Wednesday.
I've never understood this about the bus industry.
Why do people think that NXWM owe them something. I'm referring to all the moans and complaints you see on social media and on this forum like "oh what about these people" "how am I supposed to get from A to B" etc
NXWM is a business. If they're not covering costs on certain routes, they can withdraw them or run them as infrequently as they please.
If any of you operated a bus company and suddenly you're running at a loss, what are you going to do? Lose money and carry on with the service picking up a handful of people?
You're not forced to use NXWM either. They don't owe the public anything. They exist to make a profit and fulfil demand. There is marginal demand at the moment, so naturally they will reduce the supply (I.e buses).
You hear comments like "how the hell am I supposed to go to work" etc etc.
Quote from: SL 16 YPN on March 20, 2020, 08:59:03 AM
There is as people ask the questions that have already been answered
Think of how many people know about this and then think about OAP's or young people (abd I'm not just talking about school age kids) I think some poeple on here needs to think before thy post.
Quote from: Stu on March 20, 2020, 06:50:31 PM
There is no need to do this as there are no services being taken off! There are plenty of bus services that serve hospitals already, all that is happening is that some very frequent services will become slightly less frequent.
Think ahead though. If buses are foresed to stop then there won't be any services to hospitals unless operators put 'spechial service on'.
Quote from: Bus Man K2 on March 20, 2020, 08:42:05 PM
Think ahead though. If buses are foresed to stop then there won't be any services to hospitals unless operators put 'spechial service on'.
But they are not being forced to stop!
Quote from: Tony on March 20, 2020, 08:53:33 PM
But they are not being forced to stop!
But when they are. The NHS Staff that don't drive won't be able to get to work. So if NX or any other operator thinks ahead then they will still be able to get to work. So as I said operators should think ahead and may be start doing 'spechial services' for NHS staff.
Quote from: Bus Man K2 on March 20, 2020, 09:01:18 PM
But when they are. The NHS Staff that don't drive won't be able to get to work. So if NX or any other operator thinks ahead then they will still be able to get to work. So as I said operators should think ahead and may be start doing 'spechial services' for NHS staff.
If the NHS/government/TfWM want this, I'm sure they'll put it out to tender.
Why is NXWM going to run the 76 to QE for example for NHS staff when they can run it for everyone for the same cost and get more passengers?
Quote from: MW on March 20, 2020, 09:15:57 PM
If the NHS/government/TfWM want this, I'm sure they'll put it out to tender.
Why is NXWM going to run the 76 to QE for example for NHS staff when they can run it for everyone for the same cost and get more passengers?
As I said if the Government force operators to stop runnung services, but what 'spechial NHS service' that are only open for NHS workers to run, surely NX or any other operator should be thinking of this before it starts. Clearly I'm the only one that poining this out.
Quote from: Bus Man K2 on March 20, 2020, 09:25:58 PM
As I said if the Government force operators to stop runnung services, but what 'spechial NHS service' that are only open for NHS workers to run, surely NX or any other operator should be thinking of this before it starts. Clearly I'm the only one that poining this out.
Yes because NXWM and Claribels and other operators announce their strategies on this forum before implementing them...
Nobody knows what will happen. Buses are still running.
If transport links are cut off completely, I'm sure some of the most vital links will still operate in some way shape or form, but we're not there yet.
If it happens; you'll hear about it. Unless you're a director or major player in any of these companies or local authorities, you won't know. Maybe local celebrity Billy Bullshit can help you. It's not just you thinking or pointing this out. You're asking something that nobody can answer.
Quote from: Bus Man K2 on March 20, 2020, 09:25:58 PM
As I said if the Government force operators to stop runnung services, but what 'spechial NHS service' that are only open for NHS workers to run, surely NX or any other operator should be thinking of this before it starts. Clearly I'm the only one that poining this out.
If the Government stop operators providing vital services, then it is the Government that will need to provide the alternative.
The only reason you're the only none pointing it out is because you are inventing situations
All this 'chatter' has firmed up my view that 'we' whether it's NX or some other provider has to ensure that services are available for NHS/health workers to reach their place of work. We expect them to care for us and we have to get them to hospitals or whether they need to be. At this time cost should not be an issue. NX or any other provider is not going bust by providing these services. It is the only moral course of action that should be taken, if it is necessary.
Quote from: MW on March 20, 2020, 09:15:57 PM
Why is NXWM going to run the 76 to QE for example for NHS staff when they can run it for everyone for the same cost and get more passengers?
Don't see why it shouldn't be open to other passengers.
What about passengers who need to get the bus to the supermakets, and some of them might not be able to walk the distance.
Quote from: 2206 on March 21, 2020, 01:59:53 PM
Don't see why it shouldn't be open to other passengers.
What about passengers who need to get the bus to the supermakets, and some of them might not be able to walk the distance.
You're taking MW's quote out of context, it was a rhetorical question.
There are no plans (as of yet) to restrict bus usage to any particular groups of people.
All that is happening is that some service frequencies are being reduced, and this is a reflection on lower numbers of passengers as well as less traffic congestion.
Quote from: Stu on March 21, 2020, 03:51:29 PM
You're taking MW's quote out of context, it was a rhetorical question.
There are no plans (as of yet) to restrict bus usage to any particular groups of people.
All that is happening is that some service frequencies are being reduced, and this is a reflection on lower numbers of passengers as well as less traffic congestion.
I wasn't taking it out of context.
I was stating I completely agree with the point that the services should be open to all passengers who need to make essential journeys - such as passengers who need to get to supermarkets. Including elderly people and staff.
In addition I don't see the need for special services when the Hospitals are already well served by normal services.
Quote from: Bus Man K2 on March 20, 2020, 09:25:58 PM
As I said if the Government force operators to stop runnung services, but what 'spechial NHS service' that are only open for NHS workers to run, surely NX or any other operator should be thinking of this before it starts. Clearly I'm the only one that poining this out.
It was @BusMan K2 who suggested all services could be suspended and cutting people off, without considering people who rely on them.
As other operators I.e arriva stagecoach etc are also reducing service, would it make sense to move this thread to general rather than just nx
@Steveminor - done!
The information below is for Arriva Services
Starting from the first service on Monday 23 March, there will be a reduced service on the following routes:
Service 1 (Walsall) – No service
Service 2 (Walsall) – every 30 mins
Service 3/3a – No service
Service 9 – Saturday service
Service 70 – every 60 min
Service 74/8/9 (Coventry) – Saturday service
Service 110 – every 30 mins
The information is for Stagecoach services
Starting from the first service on Monday 30 March, there will be a reduced service on the following routes:
Service U1 Warwick Gates - Leamington - University Of Warwick
Off peak frequency reduced between Leamington and University Of Warwick to every 30 minutes
Service U2 - Leamington - University of Warwick
Service withdrawn
Service U12 University Of Warwick - Coventry
Frequency reduced between Leamington and University Of Warwick to every 30 minutes
Service X17 - Coventry - Kenilworth - Leamington - Warwick
Frequency reduced to every 30 minutes on Mondays to Saturdays and hourly Sundays
Service X18 - Coventry - Leamington - Warwick - Stratford - Evesham
The frequency is reduced to hourly on Mondays to Saturdays on the Stratford to Evesham section
Service 48 Coventry - Nuneaton - Leicester / Atherstone
Frequency reduced Mondays to Saturdays - every 15 minutes Coventry - Nuneaton section every 30 minutes Nuneaton to Atherstone section every 30 minutes Nuneaton - Leicester section
Service 55 Coventry - Bedworth - Nuneaton
Frequency reduced to hourly Mondays to Saturdays
Service 56 Coventry - Bedworth - Bulkington - Nuneaton
Frequency reduced to hourly Mondays to Saturdays
Service 86 Coventry - Long Lawford - Rugby - DIRFT
Frequency reduced to every 60 minutes Mondays to Saturdays and withdrawn between DIRFT and Rugby Town Centre
Decourcey now have reduced services on their website.
Landflight will be going to a Saturday service.
Diamond have announced some reductions on their website with more potentially to come.
Johnsons are reducing service but timetables not yet released.
Quote from: Steveminor on March 21, 2020, 04:53:14 PM
As other operators I.e arriva stagecoach etc are also reducing service, would it make sense to move this thread to general rather than just nx
@Steveminor - done!
No problem, and thanks
@Winston for moving this - while I originally started this topic to comment on the reaction that NX Bus had received to their announcement, I see no reason why this can't be expanded now that other operators are following suite.
But I will take this opportunity to stress that while I feel these service changes were inevitable, given the current situation, it was the reaction from some people that I was finding absurd.
The thing I'm most concerned about is that once the virus is gone, will operators be willing to reintroduce cut or reduced services to stimulate growth, or do people think that passenger numbers will not return?
Quote from: the trainbasher on March 21, 2020, 05:54:48 PM
The thing I'm most concerned about is that once the virus is gone, will operators be willing to reintroduce cut or reduced services to stimulate growth, or do people think that passenger numbers will not return?
In time once the virus is gone and people stop isolating/avoiding unnecessary travel, office workers go back to work and schools reopen, surely passenger numbers will increase again?
We will have to see how long this goes on for.
The smart thing is to STOP travelling around & spreading the virus.
Network West Midlands have set up a dedicated Network Overview page to advise on current service status:
https://www.networkwestmidlands.com/plan-your-journey/network-overview/
Quote from: Stu on March 22, 2020, 09:43:19 AM
Network West Midlands have set up a dedicated Network Overview page to advise on current service status:
https://www.networkwestmidlands.com/plan-your-journey/network-overview/
This page has been live for a while now. I don't know how people have missed this.
Quote from: Bus Man K2 on March 22, 2020, 01:46:25 PM
This page has been live for a while now. I don't know how people have missed this.
I only got the email from Network West Midlands informing of this early this morning.
Quote from: Stu on March 22, 2020, 01:52:43 PM
I only got the email from Network West Midlands informing of this early this morning.
It went live a couple of days ago. I think if my mind serves me right it went live last Wednesday.
Quote from: RW on March 20, 2020, 08:59:18 AM
I have to admit I haven't read the statement but wondered whether NX have considered running 'new' services specifically for NHS staff. They could link a number of health/NHS sites and run at specific times of the day identified in conjunction with the NHS. Just a thought but may be totally impracticable. As an afterthought we do it for Amazon staff at Christmas, I think, surely at this time where NHS and health workers are running on Adrenalin it's worth considering.
Can't speak for other hospitals but for QEHB, adding 19 and 48 on Sunday early services would make a good difference. It would bring about 50 staff at best and in time like this especially if there is going to be rise of the cases in the hospital, it would help them to be prepared and prioritise where the staff needed.
With the prime ministers decision to close all pubs, clubs, restaurants etc. together with shops like John Lewis, Primark which has announced that it's to close all it's stores from today. The new timetables which are to start on Wednesday (NXWM) will be already out of date and I think an enhanced Sunday service with earlier starts is more likely to happen in a couple of weeks.
The DeCourcey 60/61 seem to have switched to a Sunday service from today, as the timetable on their website is only showing service between Warwick University and Arena Tesco via University Hospital. The full route isn't in operation.
Quote from: Stu on March 22, 2020, 09:43:19 AM
Network West Midlands have set up a dedicated Network Overview page to advise on current service status:
https://www.networkwestmidlands.com/plan-your-journey/network-overview/
Sorry for the silly question but why does this webpage say that there may be cancellations to just PN services ?
Quote from: TT90 on March 22, 2020, 06:47:27 PM
Sorry for the silly question but why does this webpage say that there may be cancellations to just PN services ?
Short of drivers maybe? Stu Harris posted a tweet from somewhere not long ago that certain journeys won't be run on the likes of 9, 28 and X10 due to shortage of drivers.
Daft question but say if the govt announce lockdown later this week, would it mean all buses/trains nationwide are cancelled?
Good question Bob, who knows ?
Regarding getting key workers to work, I was wondering if something similar to a ring and ride would be set up and they use this like a staff bus service maybe ?
Just checked my local routes. 14, 55 and 94 all on 15min frequencies during the day. Inner circle seems to be 15/20 min frequency.
After Sunday I won't be going to work anyway but at least my last few days will still be normal-ish.
Quote from: Gareth on March 23, 2020, 09:35:35 AM
Just checked my local routes. 14, 55 and 94 all on 15min frequencies during the day. Inner circle seems to be 15/20 min frequency.
After Sunday I won't be going to work anyway but at least my last few days will still be normal-ish.
My usual routes, the 2 and 3, would appear to be operating to Sunday frequencies during the daytime, with the early morning journeys continuing to run. Not a major hardship for me as they drop from a combined 10-min service to 15-min, with both reducing to 30mins instead of 20mins.
Based on observations this morning and this evening, this won't be a problem overall, as passenger numbers have really dwindled, but at least the new timetables will mean that services spend less time waiting at timing points or having to drive slowly.
Quote from: Stu on March 23, 2020, 06:03:57 PM
Based on observations this morning and this evening, this won't be a problem overall, as passenger numbers have really dwindled, but at least the new timetables will mean that services spend less time waiting at timing points or having to drive slowly.
Yea, most of the services that I've seen today (in Nuneaton/Coventry/Leamington/Warwick/Stratford/Rugby) have had very few, if any customers on them.
I would think that people in the back rooms will be monitoring the load levels and adjusting as needed?
Quote from: Stu on March 23, 2020, 06:03:57 PM
My usual routes, the 2 and 3, would appear to be operating to Sunday frequencies during the daytime, with the early morning journeys continuing to run. Not a major hardship for me as they drop from a combined 10-min service to 15-min, with both reducing to 30mins instead of 20mins.
Based on observations this morning and this evening, this won't be a problem overall, as passenger numbers have really dwindled, but at least the new timetables will mean that services spend less time waiting at timing points or having to drive slowly.
I saw 5 buses parked up at Stratford Road/Aldi Sparkbrook heading out of City waiting time today.
A 4, 5, 6, 2 & 4A if I recall correctly.
So those timetables are virtually now out of date, if everyone does as they are told, then the proposed timetables can be cut dramatically.
I guess they may now have to look at further reductions to maybe a Sunday service or something similar to Boxing Day perhaps ?
Will everything shutting and all the new measures there won't be many people using the buses unfortunately.
Claribels services 55, 94 & 75 business park shuttles (not the sutton runs) are suspended until further notice.
This has been a VERY hard & upsetting decision.
Quote from: Steveminor on March 24, 2020, 05:06:01 PM
Claribels services 55, 94 & 75 business park shuttles (not the sutton runs) are suspended until further notice.
This has been a VERY hard & upsetting decision.
Passenger numbers on Claribels 94 seemed to be very low earlier today.
Only 1 - 3 people on the ones I saw at about 10AM.
Hopefully this virus doesn't go on for too long and they make a return soon.
Quote from: Steveminor on March 24, 2020, 05:06:01 PM
Claribels services 55, 94 & 75 business park shuttles (not the sutton runs) are suspended until further notice.
This has been a VERY hard & upsetting decision.
I bet it was upsetting. My best wishes to all operators, particularly SMEs, in these uncertain times.
Some drivers who have over 20 years service were almost in tears at the news.
Our tendered services remain & hopefully when we defeat this virus we'll be back to full strength.
Quote from: Steveminor on March 24, 2020, 06:46:22 PM
Some drivers who have over 20 years service were almost in tears at the news.
Our tendered services remain & hopefully when we defeat this virus we'll be back to full strength.
Judging by the number of passengers I've seen using buses in the last couple of days, I'm not surprised by this, its a bold decision to make, and this situation will hit the smaller operators harder than the bigger ones.
One can only hope that within a few weeks, the worst will be over and things can start to get back to normal again.
Best wishes to you and your staff Steve!
NWM Site States:
"RK Travel
From Wednesday 25 March service 11A will operate a Saturday service."
So does that mean no service then and that they will also be suspending services? As RK Travel/DTS don't operate a Saturday service?
MORE CHANGES TO COME SOON. VERY SOON
Quote from: Stu on March 24, 2020, 08:17:48 PM
Judging by the number of passengers I've seen using buses in the last couple of days, I'm not surprised by this, its a bold decision to make, and this situation will hit the smaller operators harder than the bigger ones.
One can only hope that within a few weeks, the worst will be over and things can start to get back to normal again.
Best wishes to you and your staff Steve!
I think you're being very optimistic thinking this will be over in a few weeks.
Also, many people are switching to buying online / having food & goods delivered to their front doors, some may never return to the High St / fetching it themselves. Same with some employee's / employers seeing the benefits are remote working from home. Even with the Government support, a lot of businesses will go to the wall before it arrives and the numbers of unemployed will rocket.
Quote from: karl724223 on March 24, 2020, 09:12:02 PM
MORE CHANGES TO COME SOON. VERY SOON
To me they have to change those timetables which were issued yesterday, the PN28 still being 1/2 hourly was one service which didn't make sense, when I have seen it pass my flat window it has a maximum of 3 people on it.
West Midlands buses partnership routes will be revised from the 1st April, they've been reduced as follows:
31/32 - Combined frequency every 10 minutes (Every 15 minutes on Sundays)
https://www.diamondbuses.com/media/2154/31-32-tt-01apr20.pdf
40 - Every 30 minutes
https://www.diamondbuses.com/media/2155/40-tt-01apr20.pdf
42/43 - Combined frequency every 30 minutes
https://www.diamondbuses.com/media/2156/42-43-tt-01apr20.pdf
Judging by this I would expect NXWM to reduce the services even further very soon.
Quote from: Steve3229vp on March 25, 2020, 09:20:39 AM
West Midlands buses partnership routes will be revised from the 1st April, they've been reduced as follows:
31/32 - Combined frequency every 10 minutes (Every 15 minutes on Sundays)
https://www.diamondbuses.com/media/2154/31-32-tt-01apr20.pdf
40 - Every 30 minutes
https://www.diamondbuses.com/media/2155/40-tt-01apr20.pdf
42/43 - Combined frequency every 30 minutes
https://www.diamondbuses.com/media/2156/42-43-tt-01apr20.pdf
Judging by this I would expect NXWM to reduce the services even further very soon.
Probably an enhanced Sunday timetable still starting with the first bus and late buses as per Monday to Friday and Saturday services
Quote from: SL 16 YPN on March 25, 2020, 10:26:08 AM
Probably an enhanced Sunday timetable still starting with the first bus and late buses as per Monday to Friday and Saturday services
I don't think it will be an enhanced Sunday timetable as most shops will be closed, I would expected first and last buses as Monday to Saturday but then similar to Evening frequencies. If you look at the 31/32 timetable which I attached you will notice that it will be every 15 minutes instead of the usual every 5 minutes, so an enhanced Sunday service it will not be.
Sounds like NX services are been drastically reduced from Monday. I'm now off for 3 months so don't know whats happening
Quote from: 2206 on March 24, 2020, 08:57:34 PM
NWM Site States:
"RK Travel
From Wednesday 25 March service 11A will operate a Saturday service."
So does that mean no service then and that they will also be suspending services? As RK Travel/DTS don't operate a Saturday service?
NA52AWZ is out on the 11C so DTS are still operating today.
It had 1 passenger on it.
RK Travel also are still in operating on the 11A as well with NA52AXN on there.
Quote from: Steve3229vp on March 25, 2020, 10:51:41 AM
I don't think it will be an enhanced Sunday timetable as most shops will be closed, I would expected first and last buses as Monday to Saturday but then similar to Evening frequencies. If you look at the 31/32 timetable which I attached you will notice that it will be every 15 minutes instead of the usual every 5 minutes, so an enhanced Sunday service it will not be.
Would services which don't run on Sunday's still run, or see any changes?
Such as the 58, Sutton section of the 66, BC 25, 10S, Diamond 25.
Whilst personally confined to home (although working), I was wondering what effect this emergency will have on operator's fleets. Presuming a 40% service reduction, then this would enable vehicles to be SORN temporarily. I doubt that a 40% service reduction would result in the same fleet reduction but say it was 30%. Theoretically, that could amount, pro rata, to over 250 NXWM double deckers and over 100 single deckers not required for the time being. That could amount to all double deckers under 4718 not required, potentially. On the positive side, presumably they're still operating, release of vehicles for Euro 6 upgrades and repaint may be more easily achieved.
Small operators like Diamond and Claribels would have even bigger problems as far less flexibility.
Presumably a country-wide problem. Nice little dilemma to think about. I'm sure every operator has a similar challenge.
Is there any official comment on this.
Quote from: 2206 on March 25, 2020, 11:43:27 AM
Would services which don't run on Sunday's still run, or see any changes?
Such as the 58, Sutton section of the 66, BC 25, 10S, Diamond 25.
There are still people that need to get to work, so I don't think cutting them altogether would be possible. They could still run, albeit at reduced frequencies, like hourly, if they don't already run hourly.
I would guess that some of the still more-frequent services could be reduced futher though.
Quote from: Winston on March 24, 2020, 09:14:39 PM
I think you're being very optimistic thinking this will be over in a few weeks.
Also, many people are switching to buying online / having food & goods delivered to their front doors, some may never return to the High St / fetching it themselves. Same with some employee's / employers seeing the benefits are remote working from home. Even with the Government support, a lot of businesses will go to the wall before it arrives and the numbers of unemployed will rocket.
I think we all have to be more optimistic about this, collectively we all have to believe this will be over soon.
There is far too much negativity, doom-mongering and panic-spreading in the news and on social media for my liking.
If we can find a way to stay positive, while doing what we all need to do in the meantime, when this is over we can get back to some degree of normality.
But you are right, and it is a concern for me that the longer this goes on for, peoples' 'new habits' will become ingrained, and it will be far more difficult to return to 'normal'.
Quote from: don on March 25, 2020, 06:20:30 PM
Whilst personally confined to home (although working), I was wondering what effect this emergency will have on operator's fleets. Presuming a 40% service reduction, then this would enable vehicles to be SORN temporarily. I doubt that a 40% service reduction would result in the same fleet reduction but say it was 30%. Theoretically, that could amount, pro rata, to over 250 NXWM double deckers and over 100 single deckers not required for the time being. That could amount to all double deckers under 4718 not required, potentially. On the positive side, presumably they're still operating, release of vehicles for Euro 6 upgrades and repaint may be more easily achieved.
Small operators like Diamond and Claribels would have even bigger problems as far less flexibility.
Presumably a country-wide problem. Nice little dilemma to think about. I'm sure every operator has a similar challenge.
Is there any official comment on this.
There is several hundred buses being SORNed, but it is not as simple as everything below 4718. 4273 is still out and about for instance. I think that is the oldest bus still running
Quote from: Tony on March 25, 2020, 06:36:00 PM
There is several hundred buses being SORNed, but it is not as simple as everything below 4718. 4273 is still out and about for instance. I think that is the oldest bus still running
Thanks for the response and interesting - yeah I guessed there would be lots of other considerations - I guess saving on some requiring MOT in the near future or other maintenance would be another consideration - then where do you put them all? I'm glad it's not me - sounds like a logistic nightmare.
Quote from: don on March 25, 2020, 07:16:32 PM
Thanks for the response and interesting - yeah I guessed there would be lots of other considerations - I guess saving on some requiring MOT in the near future or other maintenance would be another consideration - then where do you put them all? I'm glad it's not me - sounds like a logistic nightmare.
still 1550 buses in 1550 parking spots.
Various decisions have influenced which buses are SORNed for instance all the ex Dundee Hybrids are parked up because their tax expires anyway at the end of the month. freshly painted 4911 cannot go back on the road as the MoT expired just before the automatic extensions, so it cannot be MoT'd. Buses off site etc
Quote from: Stu on March 25, 2020, 06:31:10 PM
I think we all have to be more optimistic about this, collectively we all have to believe this will be over soon.
I think misplaced optimism doesn't help the fight to overcome the virus. Having seen self videos on our local news of young pregnant ladies and children on ventilators in local hospitals imploring people not to go out because they may result in themselves or others dying does bring this home. There are still far too many people who don't think the restrictions apply to them and over optimistic talk really doesn't help. The CEO of my American company today, on a worldwide interactive meeting told everyone that the WHO is the source of truth and that is who we should listen to - he was having to answer why a certain person expected everything to reopen in time for him to get his Easter eggs - we're talking an additional 20,000 deaths from this in the UK potentially. It's a serious matter and one where idiotic political spin is not helpful (and most people know that). Anyway, back to buses!!
Quote from: Tony on March 25, 2020, 07:24:46 PM
still 1550 buses in 1550 parking spots.
Various decisions have influenced which buses are SORNed for instance all the ex Dundee Hybrids are parked up because their tax expires anyway at the end of the month. freshly painted 4911 cannot go back on the road as the MoT expired just before the automatic extensions, so it cannot be MoT'd. Buses off site etc
Yeah guess so. Easy enough to set aside part of a garage for SORN parking I guess.
Quote from: don on March 25, 2020, 07:33:23 PM
I think misplaced optimism doesn't help the fight to overcome the virus. Having seen self videos on our local news of young pregnant ladies and children on ventilators in local hospitals imploring people not to go out because they may result in themselves or others dying does bring this home. There are still far too many people who don't think the restrictions apply to them and over optimistic talk really doesn't help. The CEO of my American company today, on a worldwide interactive meeting told everyone that the WHO is the source of truth and that is who we should listen to - he was having to answer why a certain person expected everything to reopen in time for him to get his Easter eggs - we're talking an additional 20,000 deaths from this in the UK potentially. It's a serious matter and one where idiotic political spin is not helpful (and most people know that). Anyway, back to buses!!
I totally agree, the reason Europe & America are getting hit so hard is because governments dont want to restrict civil liberties and human rights.
China are getting through it slowly by doing just that, they have no problem doing what it takes to get the job done. If we dont start slowing our society to a crawl then this will NOT be defeated until or if a vaccine is found. Remember the common cold is a coronavirus ( although a weak one)& theres never been a cure for that.
Notice services heavily reduced from Monday:
11A/11C - Reduced to every 30 minutes from Monday.
X20/X21/X22 - Reduced to hourly each. Every 20 minutes combined.
5, 73 and X12 - Reduced to hourly.
28 - Reduced to every 30 minutes.
55 - Reduced to every 30 minutes. Presumably 94 will also be every 30 mins and they'll combine to every 15 mins.
Quote from: 2206 on March 26, 2020, 02:43:17 PM
Notice services heavily reduced from Monday:
11A/11C - Reduced to every 30 minutes from Monday.
X20/X21/X22 - Reduced to hourly each. Every 20 minutes combined.
5, 73 and X12 - Reduced to hourly.
28 - Reduced to every 30 minutes.
55 - Reduced to every 30 minutes. Presumably 94 will also be every 30 mins and they'll combine to every 15 mins.
PN9 every 30 minutes
PN7 every hour
PN28 still every half hour (does someone not realise that it is already every 30 mins and it is running round empty)
PN2/2A every hour
PN6 Don't know, when you click on the link it brings up the timetable for the 5?
NX Buses reduced drastically from 30th March
2/3 every hour each (combine every 30 mins)
6, 7, 33 every 30 mins
934/935/937 every hour each (combine every 20 mins)
50 every 20 mins
X3/X4X/X5 every hour each (combine every 20 mins)
and that's just a few of them
Hi All, anyone know what the frequency of the WN 8 and X8 will be from Monday please ?
At present they are on 30 mins each, combining every 15 mins from WN to Dudley.
Quote from: TT90 on March 26, 2020, 05:54:27 PM
Hi All, anyone know what the frequency of the WN 8 and X8 will be from Monday please ?
At present they are on 30 mins each, combining every 15 mins from WN to Dudley.
Timetables are up on the NX Bus website:
8:
https://nxbus.co.uk/routes/west-midlands/B008d/?tab=
X8:
https://nxbus.co.uk/routes/west-midlands/BX8/?tab=
Quote from: Stu on March 26, 2020, 06:33:55 PM
Timetables are up on the NX Bus website:
8:
https://nxbus.co.uk/routes/west-midlands/B008d/?tab=
X8:
https://nxbus.co.uk/routes/west-midlands/BX8/?tab=
They're both showing timetables for the 1
Quote from: Steve3229vp on March 26, 2020, 06:35:16 PM
They're both showing timetables for the 1
https://nxbus.co.uk/files/NX-West-Midlands/2020-Files/Current-timetables/COVID1-Timetables/Black-Country-and-Wolves/B0X8_8_250320.pdf
Quote from: Tony on March 26, 2020, 06:46:42 PM
https://nxbus.co.uk/files/NX-West-Midlands/2020-Files/Current-timetables/COVID1-Timetables/Black-Country-and-Wolves/B0X8_8_250320.pdf
@Tony Those are the timetables that started last Sunday. According to Facebook quite a number of timetables are showing for the wrong services!
97 every half-hour east of Heartlands Hospital, ouch!
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on March 26, 2020, 06:52:07 PM
@Tony Those are the timetables that started last Sunday. According to Facebook quite a number of timetables are showing for the wrong services!
I imagine they're all on the server, you just need to be inventive in the browser bar. Both my local routes of use (58/97) have dud links that only need editing by the end user.
The 15 is still every 30 mins whilst the 2 goes hourly
The following NX Bus Services are suspended from Monday until further notice:
WB 10, 54A and 22, BC 25, AG 32, PB 38 and 54A, PN 57/10A/10C and WN 50 and 61.
Edit - NX Website has been changed and WB 10S and 54 and PB 54 will now still be operating.
If you click on 96 timetable it says that one is suspended too
New timetables appear to be working correctly now!
Quote from: 2206 on March 27, 2020, 12:15:25 PM
The following NX Bus Services are suspended from Monday until further notice:
WB 10, 10S, 54, 54A and 22, BC 25, AG 32, PB 38, 54 and 54A, PN 57/10A/10C and WN 50 and 61.
WA 70A as well...
Quote from: Steveminor on March 27, 2020, 01:45:42 PM
If you click on 96 timetable it says that one is suspended too
Only suspending between Castle Bromwich and Chelmsley Wood Monday to Saturday. And Sunday service is suspended.
It will run between Parkfield Estate and Kingstanding only.
https://nxbus.co.uk/files/NX-West-Midlands/2020-Files/Current-timetables/COVID3-Timetables/updated-cv3-tt/B096-30March20.pdf
Think the 38 timetable should also say see 96, as that is basically the same route. But it says see the 71 for some reason.
Timetable for 8 Inner Circle shows the timetable for route 7.
Stagecoach Warwickshire are going to a mostly-Sunday service from next Monday:
https://www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/midlands/government-coronavirus-measures--changes-to-bus-services-warks
The 48 is mainly going to be Leicester to Coventry, with the odd late night journey from Atherstone. The Sunday 748 service is going to fill the Atherstone-Nuneaton gap in during the week, with it only going to Tamworth on Sunday.
Same with Arriva:
https://www.arrivabus.co.uk/coronavirus/important-service-information---midlands/
Quote from: Steveminor on March 24, 2020, 06:46:22 PM
Some drivers who have over 20 years service were almost in tears at the news.
Our tendered services remain & hopefully when we defeat this virus we'll be back to full strength.
Claribels are back on the 94 today.
I saw YJ12CKN on the 94 at Ward End around 20 minutes ago, heading towards the City Centre.
I presume the suspension has now ended then.
Quote from: 2206 on March 28, 2020, 12:21:59 PM
I presume the suspension has now ended then.
Why would the suspension end, nothing has changed.
Quote from: Winston on March 28, 2020, 12:59:22 PM
Why would the suspension end, nothing has changed.
Well why are they back on the route then
@Winston?
I saw it pull up at the stop and a passenger was alighting.
Quote from: 2206 on March 28, 2020, 01:00:00 PM
Well why are they back on the route then @Winston?
@2206 - You don't make a major decision, suspend all commercial services, tell drivers with 20 years service they're out of work then change your mind a few days later.
Quote from: Winston on March 28, 2020, 01:02:16 PM
@2206 - You don't make a major decision, suspend all commercial services, tell drivers with 20 years service they're out of work then change your mind a few days later.
So they sent the bus out by error then?
I personally saw it pull up at the stop and the passenger allighting and the bus has been tracking on bus times as well.
Quote from: 2206 on March 28, 2020, 01:02:57 PM
So they sent the bus out by error then?
I personally saw it pull up at the stop and the passenger allighting and the bus has been tracking on bus times as well.
2206 - A friendly bit of advice! You're really starting to annoy a lot people on this forum with your constant comebacks & attitude.
I really don't care what you saw, there's far more important things to worry about than buses at present!
(No comments are required from anyone else)
I don't know if this is the appropriate thread to ask this in, but how do you pause your direct debit for your bus pass whilst this isolation / lockdown is going in?
Quote from: MasterPlan on March 29, 2020, 03:02:56 PM
I don't know if this is the appropriate thread to ask this in, but how do you pause your direct debit for your bus pass whilst this isolation / lockdown is going in?
Think you can call them on 0121 254 7272 and ask to suspend your pass. Line is open Mon - Fri 9AM - 5PM.
Quote from: MasterPlan on March 29, 2020, 03:02:56 PM
I don't know if this is the appropriate thread to ask this in, but how do you pause your direct debit for your bus pass whilst this isolation / lockdown is going in?
Is it an NX direct debit pass? Your monthly receipt email has details:
To Suspend
We are able to temporarily suspend Adult and Student tickets (for the minimum of one month and the maximum of six). All suspensions require four weeks notice as tickets are renewed at least two weeks ahead of your renewal date. Please call us if you wish to arrange a suspension on your account. We are unable to suspend child tickets.
Kind regards
Direct Sales Team
National Express Bus
To contact us:
Reply to this email or
Telephone 0121 254 7272. Lines are open Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm or
Write to us at National Express Bus, PO Box 3532, BIRMINGHAM, B9 9BG
Cheers guys, I will get on it first thing tomorrow. Bit pointless paying for something I won't be using for the next few months.
Claribels will be dropping to Saturday service from tomorrow
Quote from: Steveminor on March 30, 2020, 07:22:03 PM
Claribels will be dropping to Saturday service from tomorrow
I thought you'd said that you'd suspended your services, or is this just for your tendered services still running?
2206 said he saw one of your buses operating the 94 the other day.
It's just the tendered services that are running. Upto today they were on normal timetables, that is now dropping to Saturday times.
94 55 & 75 shuttle buses are all suspended
Quote from: Stu on March 30, 2020, 08:17:09 PM
2206 said he saw one of your buses operating the 94 the other day.
Yes I saw YJ12CKN on there on Saturday at 11:50 and it did also track on the 94 on Bus Times as well on Saturday 28th.
https://bustimes.org/services/94-birmingham-chelmsley-wood-via-ward-end/vehicles?date=2020-03-28#journeys/13756668
https://bustimes.org/services/94-birmingham-chelmsley-wood-via-ward-end/vehicles?date=2020-03-28#
Though Claribels weren't on there today.
Quote from: 2206 on March 30, 2020, 08:34:26 PM
Yes I saw YJ12CKN on there on Saturday at 11:50 and it did also track on the 94 on Bus Times as well on Saturday 28th.
https://bustimes.org/services/94-birmingham-chelmsley-wood-via-ward-end/vehicles?date=2020-03-28#journeys/13756668
https://bustimes.org/services/94-birmingham-chelmsley-wood-via-ward-end/vehicles?date=2020-03-28#
Though Claribels weren't on there today.
Given the positions that the buses are shown to be stopped in before and after the 94 journeys, perhaps it was on a subsidised 36 board and the driver did the whole board rather than just the 36 journeys?
Quote from: ellspurs on March 30, 2020, 09:13:12 PM
Given the positions that the buses are shown to be stopped in before and after the 94 journeys, perhaps it was on a subsidised 36 board and the driver did the whole board rather than just the 36 journeys?
Yes that would make sense, it does seem so.
As Bus Times seems to show that it ran NIS to Heartlands after the 94 journey and then 2 hours later ran NIS from Heartlands to Chelmsley and went back on the 94. Must have done a round trip of the 36 in between.
Never knew there was a 94 board that did journeys on the 36.
Will they be running the full board ever week then
@Steveminor?
No it was a part timer who ran by mistake.
The guy only works Saturdays so he just forgot.m & given the situation we all find ourselves in it's quite understandable.
Rk travel suspending service from tomorrow
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street is 'proud' that bus usage has dropped by 87%.
(https://scontent-lht6-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/91463150_1521153388063896_5830392351696093184_o.png?_nc_cat=100&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_oc=AQn1CanfOu7Q9j8mwuSCZHiZ1VfrjhzTY3KY2jf-vsmFg6kgGWvMcOh-BaByMcrXJ9Q&_nc_ht=scontent-lht6-1.xx&oh=490840168ce21f30b949bef506be6c4f&oe=5EA93543)
QuoteI am proud to say the number of people using public transport is still falling. This makes it much easier for our key workers and transport staff to continue to work and travel safely. Thank you West Midlands.
I can understand the sentiments behind this, but considering just a few weeks ago Mr Andy Street was actively encouraging MORE people to use buses, and boasting about how passenger usage in this region was bucking the national trend, I find this a little distasteful to be honest.
Especially considering how some of the smaller operators are having to lay off staff, thus people are losing their jobs as a result.
Has Mr Street now got another free year in office due to the pandemic?
I wonder in 12 mths time if his political advisors will no doubt tell him to brag how he himself has managed to get bus usage to rocket back up again as it should do naturally?
The worry is, as businesses will have now found a new way of working they may decide they no longer need brick & mortar offices this reducing the number of travellers. Also with retailers beginning to fail already the high street which is already in decline may be desimated reducing travellers further.
So there is a very real risk that public transport usage may take a very long time to recover to pre virus levels, if ever.
Quote from: Steveminor on March 31, 2020, 10:02:13 PM
The worry is, as businesses will have now found a new way of working they may decide they no longer need brick & mortar offices this reducing the number of travellers. Also with retailers beginning to fail already the high street which is already in decline may be desimated reducing travellers further.
So there is a very real risk that public transport usage may take a very long time to recover to pre virus levels, if ever.
This is very much what I've been thinking too. A lot of companies that are, and traditionally have been, office based, will be able to downsize in terms of static infrastructure.
I think people will be less keen to travel on crowded bus and train services to get to work too - we will all effectively have to "unprogram" ourselves from social distancing for a start.
I can definitely see challenging times ahead for public transport companies - and I can't see extra subsidy materialising any time soon as national and local government will have so many issues to contend with when things even begin to get better.
Home working won't last after all of this, people will return to offices etc where their superiors can keep an eye on them and the superiors will return to be visible. It's the way of the world.
Shops will fold, business will fold but the same will grow. There will be big winners and big losers in all of this.
We will return to what we were before all of this if not worse. It's evolution........
Quote from: Steveminor on March 31, 2020, 10:02:13 PM
The worry is, as businesses will have now found a new way of working they may decide they no longer need brick & mortar offices this reducing the number of travellers. Also with retailers beginning to fail already the high street which is already in decline may be desimated reducing travellers further.
So there is a very real risk that public transport usage may take a very long time to recover to pre virus levels, if ever.
Totally agree, working remotely from home also reduces a businesses overheads, bosses can still monitor what staff are up to through server logs.
Everyone's thinking outside the box, gyms are now doing classes online via Zoom (some will prefer the social aspect) / others will like being able to do the classes to suit their own timetable in the comfort of their home. Many people are switching to having meat & veg delivered to their doors, milkmen are inundated with demand & loads of new online shoppers. The longer this drags on, the more people will used used to their new habits, some will not want to revert to previous ones.
I think it's going to be some time before NX coaches airport routes are re-instated, with Easyjet having now parked up it's entire 344 fleet.
That's the thing with airlines, planes cant just be switched back on. Depending on how long it's been laid up each aircraft will need hundreds of man hours to be flight ready again, electrical systems checked, engines serviced & oil fuel changing. Those that have been flown into storage facilities will require even more time & work. Then pilots would have reached their legal limit on non flying time & need more simulator & take off/ landings before they can fly passengers. That's why you see ryanair planes taking off circling the airport & landing again, although this will be less common the longer this goes on ( cost will begin to add up)
Quote from: Steveminor on April 01, 2020, 07:25:35 AM
That's the thing with airlines, planes cant just be switched back on. Depending on how long it's been laid up each aircraft will need hundreds of man hours to be flight ready again, electrical systems checked, engines serviced & oil fuel changing. Those that have been flown into storage facilities will require even more time & work. Then pilots would have reached their legal limit on non flying time & need more simulator & take off/ landings before they can fly passengers. That's why you see ryanair planes taking off circling the airport & landing again, although this will be less common the longer this goes on ( cost will begin to add up)
It's not just that, even once lockdown is lifted in the UK, airlines need airspace & country's re-opening around the globe for routes to be re-instated, businesses with global headquarters will have switched to video conferencing in the mean time & people won't have the money to go on holiday abroad.
I suspect a lot of coach & holiday companies will miss most of this years main season, along with all the associated UK tourist related businesses.
Also, unemployment will spike quite quickly due to businesses that work hand to mouth and can't continue until Government support payments kick in.
Some industries will be able to pick up up where they left off, others won't including: Transport, Retail, Tourism, Airlines.
Intu are already struggling financially.
With regards to the bus services, I'd guess that (with some manipulation to ensure current times/loads are right) that it shouldn't get much more dilapidated, as the government have stepped in to keep the services running: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-52122342
I believe there's to be further reductions from 12th April.
Anyone have any idea what this is likely to be, Sunday service perhaps ?
Quote from: TT90 on April 03, 2020, 09:13:55 PM
I believe there's to be further reductions from 12th April.
Anyone have any idea what this is likely to be, Sunday service perhaps ?
I think a lot of the services are already at a reduced Sunday frequency.
I'd think it may just be some tweaking of what is currently running to support the loadings that they are currently getting. Some collaboration with the train stations as well in places where the train has been drastically reduced/cancelled.
https://www.networkwestmidlands.com/plan-your-journey/network-overview/bus-updates-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak/ has a note on the NX part stating that some Sunday services are being tweaked from this Sunday.
A lot of our routes are on a frequency less than a Sunday frequency already. Very similar to late night frequencies from what I can gather
Sutton buses, every 10 minutes Sunday daytime, now they are every 20 mins, one an hour X3, X4 and X5. Just they start near enough to their Mon-Fri start times
I'm not quite sure how services could be reduced further to be honest.
What I could see happening is some tweaks to journey running times, as some buses are arriving early at timing points and having to wait.
Fewer passengers mean buses are stopping less often, so 'dwell time' is reduced, and of course with practically no traffic congestion, buses are flowing much more freely.
Has anyone info on how TfWM has reacted in terms of timetable and PVR per operator on the WMBus routes (e.g WA 31/32). Presumably they have to instruct a change rather than the operator making the decision.
Quote from: Stu on April 04, 2020, 11:17:13 AM
I'm not quite sure how services could be reduced further to be honest.
What I could see happening is some tweaks to journey running times, as some buses are arriving early at timing points and having to wait.
Fewer passengers mean buses are stopping less often, so 'dwell time' is reduced, and of course with practically no traffic congestion, buses are flowing much more freely.
Possibly that, as well as collaboration between some of the operators so there isn't so much route overlap? Before the March 30 changes, I was going through Warwick University (whilst at work) and there was 7-8 empty NXWM/Stagecoach buses going up/down Gibbet Hall Road and idling in the bus station. I think this was toned down a bit in the March 30 changes, but there probably is still a few points in the network that can be further addressed.
Quote from: don on April 04, 2020, 12:57:01 PM
Has anyone info on how TfWM has reacted in terms of timetable and PVR per operator on the WMBus routes (e.g WA 31/32). Presumably they have to instruct a change rather than the operator making the decision.
https://www.diamondbuses.com/media/2250/31_32_covid19_290320.pdf
https://nxbus.co.uk/files/NX-West-Midlands/2020-Files/Current-timetables/COVID3-Timetables/WALSALL/W031_30Mar20.pdf
There's no mention that TfWM has imposed anything, although they look like one of the most frequent services currently being offered in the West Midlands.
Currently the 4H has a combined frequency between diamond and nx of every 15 mins. I don't think this is necessary surely? Had they have been a combined authority route The frequency would have almost certainly have been reduced. A every 30 mins 4H between both operators I think would be suitable. So both operators operating once an hour - perhaps In these times allowing for tickets of either operator to be used, as it would still save companies money
Quote from: Trident 4194 on April 04, 2020, 01:31:53 PM
Currently the 4H has a combined frequency between diamond and nx of every 15 mins. I don't think this is necessary surely? Had they have been a combined authority route The frequency would have almost certainly have been reduced. A every 30 mins 4H between both operators I think would be suitable. So both operators operating once an hour - perhaps In these times allowing for tickets of either operator to be used, as it would still save companies money
On the Combined Authority route I linked in the post above, the 31/32 are running at a 10 minute combined frequency Mon/Fri and 15 minute frequency on Sunday. I guess it may be the result of a short route, so only needing 2/3 buses from each operator?
Quote from: ellspurs on April 04, 2020, 02:05:08 PM
On the Combined Authority route I linked in the post above, the 31/32 are running at a 10 minute combined frequency Mon/Fri and 15 minute frequency on Sunday. I guess it may be the result of a short route, so only needing 2/3 buses from each operator?
10 mins is quite a generous combined frequency. Very busy train routes with normally 5+ trains per hour are down to 3 (20 min combined frequency). Some key routes are down to one an hour.
I wonder if the usage on 31/32 justifies that frequency.
Apart from long term VoR vehicles (about 60 vehicles) the entire NXWM fleet is now retaxed and available for garages to use again, so you might start seeing some different buses going past your front doors
Quote from: Tony on May 16, 2020, 04:04:08 PM
Apart from long term VoR vehicles (about 40 vehicles) the entire NXWM fleet is now retaxed and available for garages to use again, so you might start seeing some different buses going past your front doors
I live on a cul-de-sac so there are no buses going past my front door anyway! ;D
I will have to admit, I have really enjoyed travelling to and from work the last few weeks on nice Platinum buses on the 2 and 3.
But then again, I suppose there is a part of me looking forward to a feeling of 'nostalgia' when the old Dennis Tridents start rolling out again. I guess it will feel quite 'quaint' at first! :)
New lockdown until at least mid February 2021. Will service reductions happen as they did last year?
https://news.sky.com/story/covid-19-boris-johnson-announces-new-national-lockdown-for-england-12179371
The difference this time is CBSSG is now in place to fund bus services whereas it wasn't initially during the first lockdown. In fact CBSSG was put in place to ensure service levels was increased. Therefore unless dft guidance changes its unlikely we will see the service reductions that we saw in March.
I would guess that there'd be timetable adjustments to account for the decreased time some routes will take to drive, to save buses laying over in inappropriate timing places to catch up on time.
Quote from: ellspurs on January 06, 2021, 02:39:11 PM
I would guess that there'd be timetable adjustments to account for the decreased time some routes will take to drive, to save buses laying over in inappropriate timing places to catch up on time.
Some minor changes already taking place from this Sunday:
https://nxbus.co.uk/west-midlands/service-updates/minor-timetable-changes-from-sunday-10th-january-2021
With schools being closed and people being urged to work from home, there's definitely less traffic on the roads. I'd have thought it to be prudent to at least introduce the school holiday timetables across the region to reduce the running times.
Quote from: Stu on January 06, 2021, 07:24:43 PM
Some minor changes already taking place from this Sunday:
https://nxbus.co.uk/west-midlands/service-updates/minor-timetable-changes-from-sunday-10th-january-2021
With schools being closed and people being urged to work from home, there's definitely less traffic on the roads. I'd have thought it to be prudent to at least introduce the school holiday timetables across the region to reduce the running times.
The 10th of Jan changes were already planned before this lockdown came in as that would be way too quick to get everything in place.
An internal email went out today advising of changes due to this lockdown from the 24th Jan:
There will be some timetable changes from 24 January due to the schools being out and lighter traffic – it will be broadly similar to the service we ran in October half term. We'll post details in garages as soon as we have them to give everyone as much notice as possible.
Obviously things may change if government guidance or circumstances change, but this is the current working assumption.