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West Midlands Buses in Discussion => National Express West Midlands => Topic started by: tphi12000 on October 19, 2012, 09:47:11 AM

Title: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: tphi12000 on October 19, 2012, 09:47:11 AM
Noted in Walsall this morning Tamworth Gemini 4207 on service A1 to Wolverhampton , is this the new Amazon service ?  ,saw this later in Wolverhampton heading out of service down the stafford Road. Tony
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: tphi12000 on October 19, 2012, 10:37:57 AM
Quote from: tphi12000 on October 19, 2012, 09:47:11 AM
Noted in Walsall this morning Tamworth Gemini 4207 on service A1 to Wolverhampton , is this the new Amazon service ?  ,saw this later in Wolverhampton heading out of service down the stafford Road. Tony
answering my own question A1 is the Rugeley (Amazon)- Wolverhampton service . Tony
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Wumpty on October 19, 2012, 12:30:53 PM
I wonder how long it will take Arriva to run an A1E between Walsall and Wolverhampton?!?!?!

Watch this space ;)
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: 2200 Bus on October 19, 2012, 07:27:29 PM
4207 has been swapped with 4204.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Bob on October 19, 2012, 07:36:41 PM
Its weird that theyre having Tamworth volvos
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: arrivaaston on October 19, 2012, 08:25:32 PM
Proberbl because there better than cannocks decker ;)
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: tphi12000 on October 20, 2012, 09:06:04 AM
Quote from: 2200 Bus on October 19, 2012, 07:27:29 PM
4207 has been swapped with 4204.
4204 on there this morning empty leaving walsall for wolverhampton. Tony
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Bob on October 20, 2012, 09:19:14 AM
wonder how long itll be til they start using Darts lol
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: John on October 20, 2012, 06:10:02 PM
It was nearly full when I saw it loading in Wolverhampton last week, it was on 3741. The 1.40pm departure.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: notepanel on October 20, 2012, 07:08:07 PM
Does anybody know if its exclusively for Amazon employees or if anyone can board? And does it serve all stops on route?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: fleetline6477 on November 02, 2012, 06:52:19 PM
This morning at about 8.10 I saw Arriva double decker 4787 S 213 JUA driving through Shepwell Green, Willenhall displaying A1 Amazon Distribution Centre via Rugeley and Cannock with a few passengers upstairs.

Where is the distribution centre?
Where does this route operate from and at what times?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: John on November 02, 2012, 07:09:03 PM
From Wolverhampton three times a day. Amazon is in Rugeley somewhere

http://www.arrivabus.co.uk/uploadedfiles/Services/Midlands/MDCKA1_011012_010912.pdf
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: broma1k on November 02, 2012, 07:15:33 PM
Amazon can be seen from the A51 Rugeley by-pass.It's right across the road from the cooling towers
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: fleetline6477 on November 02, 2012, 07:18:28 PM
Quote from: John-s-91 on November 02, 2012, 07:09:03 PM
From Wolverhampton three times a day. Amazon is in Rugeley somewhere

http://www.arrivabus.co.uk/uploadedfiles/Services/Midlands/MDCKA1_011012_010912.pdf

Found the timetable, thanks. Is this a free bus service provided by Amazon? Can member of the public use it to travel between Rugeley / Wolverhampton?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: NXWM Spectra on November 02, 2012, 11:34:36 PM
What buses operate this?

Probably Darts, same as most Arriva routes which travel anywhere near Wolverhampton.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: bwsau cymru on November 02, 2012, 11:41:40 PM
The service isnt for free I think, as ive seen people get on it ajd pay the driver
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Bob on November 02, 2012, 11:44:58 PM
Darts arent used on many Wolves routes, Telford/Bridgenorth are Versa/SB120 mainly, the 70/560/76 are largely B10BLE or SB120/200. And the 68 can have anything on it
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: John on November 03, 2012, 05:18:52 PM
When I saw it a few weeks ago, it was on 3741
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: NXWM Spectra on November 03, 2012, 10:26:50 PM
http://www.wmbusphotos.com/Arriva/4787.html
http://www.wmbusphotos.com/Arriva/4791.html

ALX400 DAFs on the A1.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on November 07, 2012, 04:00:11 PM
I've just seen the afternoon journey from Wolverhampton to Rugeley and it was both 4791 and 4792 and needed both!
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: nx4737 on November 07, 2012, 05:49:37 PM
Have the B9 Geminis returned to Tamworth yet?  110 seems to have had quite a few Scanias on it recently...
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Westy on December 02, 2012, 11:55:51 AM
How popular are these services?

The reason I ask is,  my second cousin works there & I believe it observes all stops between Walsall and Bloxwich(He lives by the Railway Inn in Leamore) and he is normally there early for the bus.

The other morning, Ive been told today, it never turned up.

What does he do in this circumstance, as its not as if he cant catch an alternative a few mins later?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on December 02, 2012, 01:09:31 PM
Quote from: Westy on December 02, 2012, 11:55:51 AM
How popular are these services?

The reason I ask is,  my second cousin works there & I believe it observes all stops between Walsall and Bloxwich(He lives by the Railway Inn in Leamore) and he is normally there early for the bus.

The other morning, Ive been told today, it never turned up.

What does he do in this circumstance, as its not as if he cant catch an alternative a few mins later?

Your family does seem very 'unlucky' with buses not turning up. You said the X51 didn't run when it clearly did because someone else on here was on it and now the A1 didn't turn up? I don't think so, the early morning run has three full double decks on it so even if one broke down the other two would have run.
I see them at Hednesford at 7am if I am walking to the station for the 7:16 train all 3 seem to have a good load on

Tony
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Bob on December 02, 2012, 01:51:57 PM
Hi tony are the deckers being used exclusively on the A1 now as i havent seen em on the local pye greens for a couple of wks
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: jarh_9394 on December 02, 2012, 02:29:07 PM
Quote from: Westy on December 02, 2012, 11:55:51 AM
How popular are these services?

The reason I ask is,  my second cousin works there & I believe it observes all stops between Walsall and Bloxwich(He lives by the Railway Inn in Leamore) and he is normally there early for the bus.

The other morning, Ive been told today, it never turned up.

What does he do in this circumstance, as its not as if he cant catch an alternative a few mins later?

The A1 is closely monitored by Amazon, bearing in mind that around 200 users can be travelling across each of the 6 daily departures. Therefore, I can guarantee it most definitely "turned up".

Our third duplicate wasn't required today, yesterday or Friday but will be back from 05:44 tomorrow.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: notepanel on December 02, 2012, 02:49:42 PM
A bit of a random question that perhaps nobody may know the answer to, but is the service expected to go back down to 1 bus after Christmas? I'm just curious whether there may be extra passengers in the build up to Christmas due to extra temps?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: jarh_9394 on December 02, 2012, 02:58:05 PM
After Christmas is undecided yet.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Bob on December 02, 2012, 03:41:42 PM
If it does i bet Cannock will lose a decker or two :-(
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Westy on December 02, 2012, 05:00:52 PM
Quote from: jarh_9394 on December 02, 2012, 02:29:07 PM
Quote from: Westy on December 02, 2012, 11:55:51 AM
How popular are these services?

The reason I ask is,  my second cousin works there & I believe it observes all stops between Walsall and Bloxwich(He lives by the Railway Inn in Leamore) and he is normally there early for the bus.

The other morning, Ive been told today, it never turned up.

What does he do in this circumstance, as its not as if he cant catch an alternative a few mins later?

The A1 is closely monitored by Amazon, bearing in mind that around 200 users can be travelling across each of the 6 daily departures. Therefore, I can guarantee it most definitely "turned up".

Our third duplicate wasn't required today, yesterday or Friday but will be back from 05:44 tomorrow.

Doesn't help my relative though. He was there in plenty of time, I've been told.

Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: jarh_9394 on December 04, 2012, 06:28:10 PM
I'll repeat my quote from above:

"The A1 is closely monitored by Amazon, bearing in mind that around 200 users can be travelling across each of the 6 daily departures. Therefore, I can guarantee it most definitely "turned up"."

If both buses (or all three dependent on the day this allegedly happened) failed to operate, I would expect to have received a vast influx of complaints together with a termination of the contract from Amazon.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: arrivaaston on December 05, 2012, 01:25:25 PM
Ok let's look at the facts here, a bus will break down, it happens, it can't be helped but if I'm right in saying Arriva use 2 deckers and Midland run a 3rd on the A1 and they run together, are u saying that because 1 didn't turn up the other 2 couldn't run without it? I don't think so, as for the x51 I don't really use NXWM buses as I live in cannock but I've been to walsall and they do seem to run quite regular!!
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Discodave on December 15, 2012, 04:43:09 PM
What I have seen they all run and are packed to the gunnals its good amazon are providing these buses and being a high profile customer Arriva/Midland will make sure it runs you cannot throw away money like that
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on September 03, 2015, 01:58:49 PM
The Erdington service will restart tomorrow, with two more services due to start on Monday
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on September 03, 2015, 04:08:52 PM
Can I use my 4 week pass on the Erdington service
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on September 03, 2015, 04:18:19 PM
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 03, 2015, 04:08:52 PM
Can I use my 4 week pass on the Erdington service

No, as I posted in the main Wolverhampton thread, no passes are valid on these services.

They are registered services so are available to anyone, not just those travelling to Amazon.

Single fares are £3 or £3.50
Return fares are £5. There is also a £6 ticket which is a normal regional daysaver + amazon services.

Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Trident 4194 on September 03, 2015, 04:27:06 PM
What is the Amazon?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on September 03, 2015, 04:34:43 PM
Quote from: Trident 4194 on September 03, 2015, 04:27:06 PM
What is the Amazon?

I didn't think anyone who could use a computer didn't know what Amazon was!
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: ARBB on September 03, 2015, 04:35:55 PM
Quote from: Trident 4194 on September 03, 2015, 04:27:06 PM
What is the Amazon?

A rainforest in South America  :)
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: the trainbasher on September 03, 2015, 04:37:07 PM
Will swift PAYG be valid on it?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on September 03, 2015, 04:38:24 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 03, 2015, 04:37:07 PM
Will swift PAYG be valid on it?

The staff notice doesn't mention that, I suspect no this year
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: domino.99 on September 03, 2015, 04:38:32 PM
Quote from: Trident 4194 on September 03, 2015, 04:27:06 PM
What is the Amazon?

@Trident 4194 (https://wmbusphotos.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Famazonpickingchallenge.org%2Famazon_logo.png&hash=c216b03f569106f915c366db36a8ee7d368b6173)
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Other Walsall Tony on September 03, 2015, 05:29:52 PM
Quote from: pndriver on September 03, 2015, 04:35:55 PM
A rainforest in South America  :)

I thought it was a rather large river.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: MrBevan2000 on September 03, 2015, 06:06:38 PM
Quote from: Tony on September 03, 2015, 01:58:49 PM
The Erdington service will restart tomorrow, with two more services due to start on Monday
I thought NXWM lost the A52 contract?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: 2206 on September 03, 2015, 06:27:03 PM
Quote from: Michael Bevan on September 03, 2015, 06:06:38 PM
I thought NXWM lost the A52 contract?
Arriva lost it @Michael Bevan NXWM will operate it.
Dose anyone know what times the Erdington service will arrive and depart Erdington?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on September 03, 2015, 06:30:48 PM
They leave Erdington to Rugeley at 06:45 & 17:45
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: 2206 on September 03, 2015, 06:32:48 PM
Quote from: Tony on September 03, 2015, 06:30:48 PM
They leave Erdington to Rugeley at 06:45 & 17:45
Thanks @Tony
What time do they arrive back in Erdington plus dose anyone know the route it will take?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: MrBevan2000 on September 03, 2015, 08:10:22 PM
Quote from: 2206 on September 03, 2015, 06:32:48 PM
Thanks @Tony
What time do they arrive back in Erdington plus dose anyone know the route it will take?
I've seen it in Kingstanding around 7:00. So I assume the same as Central's 88/89 to Kingstanding. Dunno after that.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on September 03, 2015, 08:13:35 PM
Quote from: Michael Bevan on September 03, 2015, 08:10:22 PM
I've seen it in Kingstanding around 7:00. So I assume the same as Central's 88/89 to Kingstanding. Dunno after that.

Remember it is a brand new contract this year, so may not follow the same route It is set so that it pick up as many of the agency staff as possible. I haven't seen the route yet, so cannot answer that question. I was asked to drive the first one tomorrow, but it is my daughters graduation ceremony at University, so am otherwise engaged! It will be a BC bus tomorrow.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on September 03, 2015, 08:59:05 PM
Quote from: Tony on September 03, 2015, 08:13:35 PM
Remember it is a brand new contract this year, so may not follow the same route It is set so that it pick up as many of the agency staff as possible. I haven't seen the route yet, so cannot answer that question. I was asked to drive the first one tomorrow, but it is my daughters graduation ceremony at University, so am otherwise engaged! It will be a BC bus tomorrow.

Being 1 of those people, I'm extremely thankful NX got the contract as I was about to purchase a railcard as well
Tony after having my Graduation Ceremony today, you'll enjoy it and be a proud parent and I hope to see you driving 1 of the buses.

PS does anyone know which bus will be allocated this contract ?! I'm assuming decker, maybe Any of the 2 B7TLs
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on September 03, 2015, 10:07:01 PM
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 03, 2015, 08:59:05 PM
Being 1 of those people, I'm extremely thankful NX got the contract as I was about to purchase a railcard as well
Tony after having my Graduation Ceremony today, you'll enjoy it and be a proud parent and I hope to see you driving 1 of the buses.

PS does anyone know which bus will be allocated this contract ?! I'm assuming decker, maybe Any of the 2 B7TLs

BC haven't got any B7TLs!
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on September 03, 2015, 10:09:19 PM
Quote from: Tony on September 03, 2015, 10:07:01 PM
BC haven't got any B7TLs!

My bad, I thought PB was doing these runs, I'm used to BCs Tridents so I'll happily take 1 !
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Bob on September 03, 2015, 10:10:34 PM
Did Arriva put in for the contract this year?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: 2206 on September 04, 2015, 01:25:56 PM
Which stop in Erdington will the amazon service use?
Thanks in advance
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on September 08, 2015, 11:51:02 AM
I rang National Express and the woman on the other side stated she had no knowledge of an Erdington to Rugeley bus route and that National Express dont operate the route.......... !!
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: MW on September 08, 2015, 12:54:49 PM
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 08, 2015, 11:51:02 AM
I rang National Express and the woman on the other side stated she had no knowledge of an Erdington to Rugeley bus route and that National Express dont operate the route.......... !!

Try ringing NXWM instead.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on September 08, 2015, 01:05:32 PM
Quote from: MW on September 08, 2015, 12:54:49 PM
Try ringing NXWM instead.

Apologies, I did ring them and I went to enquire aboit a route and she didn't recognise it and stated NXWM dont do any routes which go to Rugeley
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: winston on September 10, 2015, 09:26:09 AM
PD0001111/740 - WEST MIDLANDS TRAVEL LTD T/A TRAVEL WEST MIDLANDS, 51 BORDESLEY GREEN, BIRMINGHAM, B9 4BZ
Cancellation Accepted by SN: Operating between Walsall to Rugeley Amazon. and Walsall to Rugeley Amazon. given service number A51 effective from 20-Sep-2015.

PD0001111/738 - WEST MIDLANDS TRAVEL LTD T/A TRAVEL WEST MIDLANDS, 51 BORDESLEY GREEN, BIRMINGHAM, B9 4BZ
        Registration Accepted by SN
        Starting Point: Wolverhampton to Rugeley Amazon
        Finish Point: Wolverhampton to Rugeley Amazon
        Via: Bilston, Willenhall and Cannock
        Service Number: A5
        Service Type: Normal Stopping
        Effective Date: 07-SEP-2015
        Other Details: New Service

PD0001111/746 - WEST MIDLANDS TRAVEL LTD T/A TRAVEL WEST MIDLANDS, 51 BORDESLEY GREEN, BIRMINGHAM, B9 4BZ
        Registration Accepted by SN
        Starting Point: Amazon Depot, Rugeley
        Finish Point: Erdington
        Via: Kingstanding
        Service Number: A52
        Service Type: School or Works
        Effective Date: 07-SEP-2015
        Other Details: New Service

Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Stu on September 10, 2015, 06:33:28 PM
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 08, 2015, 01:05:32 PM
Apologies, I did ring them and I went to enquire aboit a route and she didn't recognise it and stated NXWM dont do any routes which go to Rugeley

It's not a public service route, so that's why she probably has no information on it. It's a works service operated under contract to Amazon.

Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on September 10, 2015, 06:38:23 PM
Quote from: Stu on September 10, 2015, 06:33:28 PM
It's not a public service route, so that's why she probably has no information on it. It's a works service operated under contract to Amazon.

It is a registered service, so if you find it you can catch it, and it is not under contract to Amazon
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Stu on September 10, 2015, 06:40:54 PM
Quote from: Tony on September 10, 2015, 06:38:23 PM
It is a registered service, so if you find it you can catch it, and it is not under contract to Amazon

Oh ok my mistake, well it's not a 'regular' public service then!  :D Fares are different too aren't they? Amazon must have some involvement though, some kind of tender?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on September 10, 2015, 06:48:23 PM
Quote from: Stu on September 10, 2015, 06:40:54 PM
Oh ok my mistake, well it's not a 'regular' public service then!  :D Fares are different too aren't they? Amazon must have some involvement though, some kind of tender?

Although it goes to Amazon it is not them arranging the services, yes fares are £3 single or £5 return and you can get on or off at any stop, you do not have to travel to Amazon
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on September 10, 2015, 07:14:56 PM
I have to say this service is all over the place !

1st day, a WN Trident picks everyone up at Amazon but the driver starts charging people despite the fact the Erdington bound B7TL ALX400 driver (BC ?!) Said it was free

2nd Day, I went to Erdington to get my journey (Service starts outside Maplin) and a BC Enviro 400 pops up (Free journey) and takes us straight to Amazon (No stops). Quite nice I might add.
On the way back, talk of a noteworthy working but for Wolverhampton, a 1 branded Enviro 400H shows up which carries on charging people, then the Erdington bound bus arrived which was .... a WA 51 branded Enviro 400 (4865 currently on it !) And the same driver who said it was free yesterday has now started charging us !

Really don't know what to say !
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on September 10, 2015, 07:28:39 PM
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 10, 2015, 07:14:56 PM
I have to say this service is all over the place !

1st day, a WN Trident picks everyone up at Amazon but the driver starts charging people despite the fact the Erdington bound B7TL ALX400 driver (BC ?!) Said it was free

2nd Day, I went to Erdington to get my journey (Service starts outside Maplin) and a BC Enviro 400 pops up (Free journey) and takes us straight to Amazon (No stops). Quite nice I might add.
On the way back, talk of a noteworthy working but for Wolverhampton, a 1 branded Enviro 400H shows up which carries on charging people, then the Erdington bound bus arrived which was .... a WA 51 branded Enviro 400 (4865 currently on it !) And the same driver who said it was free yesterday has now started charging us !

Really don't know what to say !

Can't charge until the registrations are in place, NX were asked to start running it at very short notice, earlier than planned so had to get the short notice registration approved before fares could be charged
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: John on September 10, 2015, 08:04:50 PM
A 51 Branded Enviro400 must have been on the Erdington Amazon service this afternoon. Came down the Chester Road (From New Oscott Direction) at The Yenton, turned towards Erdington and was parked at 6 Ways when I passed it
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on September 10, 2015, 08:07:12 PM
Quote from: John on September 10, 2015, 08:04:50 PM
A 51 Branded Enviro400 must have been on the Erdington Amazon service this afternoon. Came down the Chester Road (From New Oscott Direction) at The Yenton, turned towards Erdington and was parked at 6 Ways when I passed it

Yes Sir ! If you saw an asian lad with a beanie hat waiting by the 11C stop, that was me !

I thought BC ran the Erdington service ?!

Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on September 10, 2015, 08:12:07 PM
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 10, 2015, 08:07:12 PM
Yes Sir ! If you saw an asian lad with a beanie hat waiting by the 11C stop, that was me !

I thought BC ran the Erdington service ?!

It is being driven by 'non-driving' staff at the moment, I could do it if I wished, and whoever drives it is choosing which garage has a bus and is convenient to them
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on September 10, 2015, 08:35:17 PM
Quote from: Tony on September 10, 2015, 08:12:07 PM
It is being driven by 'non-driving' staff at the moment, I could do it if I wished, and whoever drives it is choosing which garage has a bus and is convenient to them

If you ever decide to run a journey, make it a Platinum as its a long journey and you can really open it up as well !
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on September 10, 2015, 08:39:12 PM
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 10, 2015, 08:35:17 PM
If you ever decide to run a journey, make it a Platinum as its a long journey and you can really open it up as well !

'Open it up' Platinums are no different to any other bus to drive
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on September 19, 2015, 01:40:37 PM
Ok, after working at Amazon for a while allow me to post some observations.

Every bus thats been on the Erdington to Amazon route has been WA bus, I'm assuming the drivers prefer their buses, last week it was predominantly Emviro 400 with the odd B7TL ALX400 although this week its a mixture of Tridents and B7TL ALX400.
Bar 1 instance of 5421 making a rare appearance, every bus (That I've seen) on the route has been a Trident on the A5 (Wolverhampton to Amazon)
NXWM website also mentions an A51 route which goes to Walsall to Amazon although I've never seen this bus. All 3 bus routes are supposed to depart at 6.45 from Amazon although I've never seen this Walsall bus ! Their is a coach which is goes to Walsall although its operated by a 3rd party.

After chatting to a driver, he stated that the service will go on till Christmas although he didnt know what will happen after that. Another thing is that Amazon have mentioned compulsory overtime and I was wondering will the bus service be adjusted for it ?!
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Ashley 60171 on September 19, 2015, 01:54:03 PM
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 19, 2015, 01:40:37 PM
Ok, after working at Amazon for a while allow me to post some observations.

Every bus thats been on the Erdington to Amazon route has been WA bus, I'm assuming the drivers prefer their buses, last week it was predominantly Emviro 400 with the odd B7TL ALX400 although this week its a mixture of Tridents and B7TL ALX400.
Bar 1 instance of 5421 making a rare appearance, every bus (That I've seen) on the route has been a Trident on the A5 (Wolverhampton to Amazon)
NXWM website also mentions an A51 route which goes to Walsall to Amazon although I've never seen this bus. All 3 bus routes are supposed to depart at 6.45 from Amazon although I've never seen this Walsall bus ! Their is a coach which is goes to Walsall although its operated by a 3rd party.

After chatting to a driver, he stated that the service will go on till Christmas although he didnt know what will happen after that. Another thing is that Amazon have mentioned compulsory overtime and I was wondering will the bus service be adjusted for it ?!

These services only run until Christmas/early January anyway. Any other time you would have to use the train, same as if your start/finish times don't match the bus departure times.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on September 19, 2015, 02:28:39 PM
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on September 19, 2015, 01:54:03 PM
These services only run until Christmas/early January anyway. Any other time you would have to use the train, same as if your start/finish times don't match the bus departure times.

I see your point although the departure times fit in when workers start and end their shifts
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Ashley 60171 on September 19, 2015, 03:01:52 PM
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on September 19, 2015, 02:28:39 PM
I see your point although the departure times fit in when workers start and end their shifts

I know they are. I was referring to your overtime query.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on September 19, 2015, 03:28:50 PM
Quote from: Ashley 60171 on September 19, 2015, 03:01:52 PM
I know they are. I was referring to your overtime query.

I'll have to check with staff again but I think the overtime applies to all staff which means we may all end up departing late which may in turn end up affecting journeys for many people
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Nxwm on October 14, 2015, 11:16:24 AM
What route will the A52 take from Erdington as my brother is going to be getting this bus any help will be much appreciated thanks
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on October 14, 2015, 01:33:06 PM
Quote from: Nxwm on October 14, 2015, 11:16:24 AM
What route will the A52 take from Erdington as my brother is going to be getting this bus any help will be much appreciated thanks

I know the route well as I use it although it goes through Kingstanding, Streetly and Lichfield, it stops at any stop along the way, where does your brither intend to catch it from
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: MrBevan2000 on October 15, 2015, 03:29:42 AM
From what I've been told, PB will be running 5 A52's in the morning from the 1st of November.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on October 15, 2015, 05:58:05 AM
Quote from: Michael Bevan on October 15, 2015, 03:29:42 AM
From what I've been told, PB will be running 5 A52's in the morning from the 1st of November.

Seems excessive as the current WA bus doesn't get full, I've seen it at 75% at 1 point although Amazon are looking to recruit more people
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Nxwm on October 15, 2015, 04:21:31 PM
He lives in Perry Barr so more time he will be getting the bus from kingstanding
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on October 15, 2015, 05:02:37 PM
Quote from: Nxwm on October 15, 2015, 04:21:31 PM
He lives in Perry Barr so more time he will be getting the bus from kingstanding

Tell him to use the outbound 33 stop outside the Kingstanding Circle, only time the bus stops during the journey !
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: SMK on October 18, 2015, 08:26:16 PM
Can you use a PAYG Swift card to pay for the fares on the Amazon routes?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on October 18, 2015, 08:33:21 PM
Quote from: SMK on October 18, 2015, 08:26:16 PM
Can you use a PAYG Swift card to pay for the fares on the Amazon routes?

Nope, you have to use the Amazon fare system, other systems such as Swift Card, daysaver and travel cards aren't valid. Its quite the downer as I have bus pass yet I have to fork out extra per day
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on October 18, 2015, 08:34:46 PM
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on October 18, 2015, 08:33:21 PM
Nope, you have to use the Amazon fare system, other systems such as Swift Card, daysaver and travel cards aren't valid. Its quite the downer as I have bus pass yet I have to fork out extra per day

Swift PAYG should still work though, because that is just an equivalent of cash and it will just take the higher fare off the card
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on October 18, 2015, 08:40:55 PM
Quote from: Tony on October 18, 2015, 08:34:46 PM
Swift PAYG should still work though, because that is just an equivalent of cash and it will just take the higher fare off the card

My apologies, just heard drivers keep saying nothing else will work,

Tony I was wondering will the Amazon services be getting more buses or will it just 1 bus per journey
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: SMK on October 28, 2015, 10:00:40 PM
Quote from: Tony on October 18, 2015, 08:34:46 PM
Swift PAYG should still work though, because that is just an equivalent of cash and it will just take the higher fare off the card
That's what I thought.
It'll save me having to find £24 in change each week....... well it will when the employment agency tells me I can start working there.
So much for that instant start/job offer mentioned prominently in the job ad. -_-
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Nxwm on November 11, 2015, 02:17:22 PM
How come perry barr ain't doing the Amazon contract  ::)
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Stuharris 6360 on November 11, 2015, 02:21:04 PM
Quote from: Nxwm on November 11, 2015, 02:17:22 PM
How come perry barr ain't doing the Amazon contract  ::)

Why Should PB do it?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Michael Bevan on November 11, 2015, 02:39:08 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on November 11, 2015, 02:21:04 PM
Why Should PB do it?

PB used to do it and were suppose to do it from November. However I don't know what has happened but WA has retained it.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: SMK on November 21, 2015, 04:43:10 PM
Anyone know what happened to the 6.45am A5 this morning?
We ended up having to wait over an hour to get on the two that brought in the day shift, which usually head straight back to Wolves not in service.
If it was a breakdown that'll be the third one that's directly affected me since I started working at Amazon just over two weeks ago -_-
Reminds me of when I had a temp job at Wolves college and had to endure the frequently overheating Spectras on the 501.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on November 21, 2015, 05:23:02 PM
Quote from: SMK on November 21, 2015, 04:43:10 PM
Anyone know what happened to the 6.45am A5 this morning?
We ended up having to wait over an hour to get on the two that brought in the day shift, which usually head straight back to Wolves not in service.
If it was a breakdown that'll be the third one that's directly affected me since I started working at Amazon just over two weeks ago -_-
Reminds me of when I had a temp job at Wolves college and had to endure the frequently overheating Spectras on the 501.

The A52 aint any more reliable I can tell ya !
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: SMK on November 25, 2015, 12:59:55 AM
I just don't understand how you can have one timetable that applies to all seven days of the week and seemingly fails to take in account the difference in peak time traffic levels between weekdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
The A5 is regularly late whenever I catch it to Amazon for my night shift, except on Sundays.

Oh well I no longer have to endure it because I've been told that my contract has been terminated -_-
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Westy on November 25, 2015, 06:23:47 AM
Wasnt you fast enough?

Whats the longest someone has worked at Amazon, because my second cousin has been there a few years himself?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: T840MAK on November 25, 2015, 08:29:10 AM
I had a friend who lasted about 7 or 8 weeks at the Amazon in Doncaster but got his contract terminated because he wasn't fast enough !
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: SMK on November 27, 2015, 06:04:54 AM
Quote from: Westy on November 25, 2015, 06:23:47 AM
Wasnt you fast enough?
Bingo.
Although expecting speed when you've been assigned to put away bulky/heavy items all day is laughable.

Oh well at least I no longer have to endure a stone cold Trident at the end of my night shift :D
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Tony on January 15, 2016, 05:21:01 PM
Quote from: Winston on September 10, 2015, 09:26:09 AM
PD0001111/740 - WEST MIDLANDS TRAVEL LTD T/A TRAVEL WEST MIDLANDS, 51 BORDESLEY GREEN, BIRMINGHAM, B9 4BZ
Cancellation Accepted by SN: Operating between Walsall to Rugeley Amazon. and Walsall to Rugeley Amazon. given service number A51 effective from 20-Sep-2015.

PD0001111/738 - WEST MIDLANDS TRAVEL LTD T/A TRAVEL WEST MIDLANDS, 51 BORDESLEY GREEN, BIRMINGHAM, B9 4BZ
        Registration Accepted by SN
        Starting Point: Wolverhampton to Rugeley Amazon
        Finish Point: Wolverhampton to Rugeley Amazon
        Via: Bilston, Willenhall and Cannock
        Service Number: A5
        Service Type: Normal Stopping
        Effective Date: 07-SEP-2015
        Other Details: New Service

PD0001111/746 - WEST MIDLANDS TRAVEL LTD T/A TRAVEL WEST MIDLANDS, 51 BORDESLEY GREEN, BIRMINGHAM, B9 4BZ
        Registration Accepted by SN
        Starting Point: Amazon Depot, Rugeley
        Finish Point: Erdington
        Via: Kingstanding
        Service Number: A52
        Service Type: School or Works
        Effective Date: 07-SEP-2015
        Other Details: New Service

NX have now registered the A5 and A51 as commercial services to continue running so they will carry on after the normal finishing date of tomorrow
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on January 15, 2016, 05:33:47 PM
Quote from: Tony on January 15, 2016, 05:21:01 PM
NX have now registered the A5 and A51 as commercial services to continue running so they will carry on after the normal finishing date of tomorrow

@Tony , are you aware of why the A52 isn't continued ?! Amazon have contracted a local coach to run the journey so their is some kind of demand. Most unusual, I had to start checking train times before being told of the coach
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Trident 4609 on January 15, 2016, 06:00:03 PM
5402 on the A5 this afternoon.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: 2206 on August 26, 2016, 07:46:21 PM
https://www.networkwestmidlands.com/media/1707/busservicechanges-issued-20160826.pdf
The A52 is reintroduced from September 4th.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: 2206 on August 28, 2016, 05:47:56 PM
Quote from: 2206 on August 26, 2016, 07:46:21 PM
https://www.networkwestmidlands.com/media/1707/busservicechanges-issued-20160826.pdf
The A52 is reintroduced from September 4th.
Does anyone know which garage will operate the A52?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on August 28, 2016, 05:52:17 PM
Quote from: 2206 on August 28, 2016, 05:47:56 PM
Does anyone know which garage will operate the A52?

Probably WA like last time.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: John on August 28, 2016, 07:57:21 PM
Quote from: 2206 on August 28, 2016, 05:47:56 PM
Does anyone know which garage will operate the A52?

Perry Barr are running it this year
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on August 28, 2016, 08:16:34 PM
Quote from: John on August 28, 2016, 07:57:21 PM
Perry Barr are running it this year

l stand corrected.

Is their reason why PB are running. Plus it was announced their would be 8 journeys so I take it PB are due some buses.

P.S. word of advice John, dont sign up to do the services ! 
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: 2206 on August 28, 2016, 08:26:32 PM
Quote from: John on August 28, 2016, 07:57:21 PM
Perry Barr are running it this year
Thanks for the information.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: John on August 28, 2016, 08:28:50 PM
Quote from: GeminiFan1991 on August 28, 2016, 08:16:34 PM
l stand corrected.

Is their reason why PB are running. Plus it was announced their would be 8 journeys so I take it PB are due some buses.

P.S. word of advice John, dont sign up to do the services !

No idea why we got it this year, maybe because Walsall don't have the staff, or maybe because Erdington is closer to Perry Barr than Walsall.

We won't need any buses in I wouldn't think as we are only running one journey in the morning and one in the evening Monday - Sunday (I wonder if the link is wrong because that says M-F only and 8 journeys, unless another garage are doing some as well?), so only one extra bus would be needed. It has it's own temporary rota with three drivers, so I wouldn't be able to do them. I imagine it is a nice run out to Rugeley though!

Quote from: 2206 on August 28, 2016, 08:26:32 PM
Thanks for the information.

No Problem
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on August 28, 2016, 10:02:08 PM
Quote from: John on August 28, 2016, 08:28:50 PM
No idea why we got it this year, maybe because Walsall don't have the staff, or maybe because Erdington is closer to Perry Barr than Walsall.

We won't need any buses in I wouldn't think as we are only running one journey in the morning and one in the evening Monday - Sunday (I wonder if the link is wrong because that says M-F only and 8 journeys, unless another garage are doing some as well?), so only one extra bus would be needed. It has it's own temporary rota with three drivers, so I wouldn't be able to do them. I imagine it is a nice run out to Rugeley though!

No Problem

I personally think the 8 journeys is a typo as during the Christmas peak, it was at most 2 deckers.

The route is great for a driver in my opinion. The A51 (The road) is quite long and the bus hits good speeds after Streetly, heck even the Plaxtons were showing life !
I only said that because, I somewhat feel for the NX drivers as workers used to just pile onto the bus in a stampede like fashion, drivers used to frequently shout out to workers to slow them down and some even just walked on occasionally refusing to pay which led to inspectors being at Lichfield and at times having 2 staff members per bus !
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Michael Bevan on September 07, 2016, 06:26:30 AM
A52 is back in full swing. Just seen 4937 pass me heading to Erdington.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: tphi12000 on September 10, 2016, 07:34:11 PM
5405 ( I think) is on one of these services tonight noted going into amazon
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: 2206 on August 04, 2017, 02:08:09 AM
Do the Amazon Services still operate @Tony?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: DJ on August 04, 2017, 04:56:35 PM
Quote from: 2206 on August 04, 2017, 02:08:09 AM
Do the Amazon Services still operate @Tony?

I'm not sure about the A1, but the A5 and A51 still show on the NXWM site and on Google Maps, so I presume so.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: John on August 04, 2017, 07:04:10 PM
Quote from: DJ98 on August 04, 2017, 04:56:35 PM
I'm not sure about the A1, but the A5 and A51 still show on the NXWM site and on Google Maps, so I presume so.

The A5 from Wolverhampton still runs, saw it on Monday
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: 2206 on August 04, 2017, 07:17:36 PM
Quote from: John on August 04, 2017, 07:04:10 PM
The A5 from Wolverhampton still runs, saw it on Monday
Thanks @John.
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: GeminiFan1991 on August 04, 2017, 10:34:09 PM
The A5 and A51 never stopped last year just the A52 did and unless I missed something, I didn't see any cancellation registrations so far so I assume all 3 are still running,
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: 2206 on September 18, 2017, 05:13:02 PM
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/510155/
A variation from the 1st October.
Is the A52 being extended to B'ham City Centre this year then?
Does anyone know what garage has it this year?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: karl724223 on September 18, 2017, 07:55:38 PM
Quote from: 2206 on September 18, 2017, 05:13:02 PM
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/510155/
A variation from the 1st October.
Is the A52 being extended to B'ham City Centre this year then?
Does anyone know what garage has it this year?
pensnett
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: 2206 on January 05, 2018, 04:20:33 PM
https://twitter.com/networkwm/status/948826558076276736
Last day of operation on the A5 and A51 is tomorrow.
No mention about the A52, so will that carry on?
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Stu on January 09, 2018, 08:30:40 PM
Quote from: 2206 on January 05, 2018, 04:20:33 PM
https://twitter.com/networkwm/status/948826558076276736
Last day of operation on the A5 and A51 is tomorrow.
No mention about the A52, so will that carry on?

"Please note that the last day of operation for Amazon Rugeley Services A5, A51 & A52 will be SATURDAY 6 JANUARY 2018."
https://www.networkwestmidlands.com/plan-your-journey/disruptions/#/params?DisruptionType=true&when=All&TransportModeA=5#4240_Centro
Title: Re: A1 Wolverhampton - Amazon
Post by: Dylanbusboy45 on March 13, 2019, 06:50:59 PM
Just checking for a friend ...
The A51 definitely has finished ? , it's still listed on bus times.org. Thanks