First Manchester

[SF07]

RE: First Manchester

(17/09/2013 09:40)Mayneway Wrote:  

(17/09/2013 03:47)jimbo Wrote:  WARNING: Roumer only

Hello, anybody know anything about oldham tenders, they are up for renewal atm, think they start November but not sure. Roumer has it though that first have lost all the tenders with MCT and Stotts winning them all. If so i feel this is a good thing as first dont seem to give a crap about their optares, using old bangers that break down a lot, 3 broke down in Rochdale alone yesterday, two belt issues and summet else...

Think it's just rumours tbh.
Depending on what's been won by who Stotts for one would need some more vehicles as they currently only have two spare Solos.
I wouldn't be surprised if they retain the 407 though as they run it too a tee.

On the subject of First tenders, I've been told by a pioneer driver that Pioneer have lost thier Stockport tenders. Not sure whether this means them loosing some of their hybrids though as there used on other services in the evenings and on Sundays, altgough the 168 was mostly normal Solos last Sunday!

If there is truth in the rumour about the Oldham minibus network, then I couldn't see Stotts gaining too many services. Could see them operating the 406 plus maybe the 403/404 and MCT running the 402 and 410/411. As for the 380/381 and 386, chances are it would be Stagecoach or MCT. Wouldn't be surprised to see the hybrids switch to the new operator and then First using the other hybrids that are on the 41 and 419 for its Tameside evening/Sunday services.

May get some confirmation of any changes in next few weeks with the TfGM Bus Committee meeting taking place on 4 October, which usually sees the documents published at some point next week.