First Manchester

[acocker96]

RE: First Manchester
I don’t think Stagecoach would get close to a takeover of Oldham depot, too many Oldham routes cut through North Manchester and as mentioned Tameside as it is; Stagecoach having those covered with Ashton and Middleton.

Stagecoach have also been sluggish with their own services lately especially when you consider the lack of 2018 investment, daft fare increases and more services being cut.

First have a load of 05-06 B7RLE’s to be replaced soon and Stagecoach have a high number of 08 plate Enviro400’s which will need replacement in a few years. That’s a huge expense for a company who don’t want franchising.

If First is to break up the ‘GM North’ division I think each depot will go to a different company, Arriva at a push may fancy Queens Road if they want to expand further into Manchester than just the South/Trafford.

I can possibly see another management buyout occuring if they can get some angel investors or venture capitalists involved.