Merseytravel Timetable Changes

[iMarkeh]

RE: Merseytravel Timetable Changes

(31/12/2018 09:07)Turbostar19 Wrote:  Slightly off topic, but I had the opportunity to ride on service 129 yesterday. This runs once per week in each direction between Frankby Cemetery and Liscard.

Whilst there were some passengers on board, I can't help but feel that this sort of route is one where Merseytravel really should be considering whether it needsto operate. The great majority of the route is duplicated by other services (albeit with a change of bus being required), and other than being very convenient for those visiting the cemetery, I can't see that it's provision is a good use of scarce funding.

Having lived in Birkenhead for around a year now, I am beginning to wonder about some of Merseytravels decisions as regards supporting services.

This is one of the most weird routes around. I don't understand why it is running. Regardless of any historic background, this is easy money which could be saved. I don't think a direct link to the cemetery is as important as those shopping, leisure and work links which many ex Avon routes provided.

(31/12/2018 10:48)mrd97 Wrote:  I can’t possibly argue with your statement, however it would seem odd Arriva directly competing with Stagecoach. Considering they’ve dropped their bus provision in the past couple of years, I’d be surprised they’d take this up. Anyhow, I can’t see it lasting.

Well. I think this is an area which has a PROVEN market. Stagecoach have 3 buses per hour along this area and haven't exactly changed much in recent years. Arriva know West Kirby - Birkenhead/Liverpool makes money as well with the 437. I think part of their issue is that they would just send 1 bus per hour onto West Kirby. Maybe 2 but that then makes the timetable very messy.

One more thing which I think we may have all overlooked which is genuinely smart is the Merseyrail Platform Upgrade works. From 7th April until 22nd April, there are no direct trains between West Kirby and Bidston or Birkenhead Central.... Now... Which route can they run which literally follows the train tracks? If they can pull people off the rail replacements and get people paying, it's easy money. They get paid for rail reps regardless. This just adds an additional revenue stream capitalising on the rail delays. I give it 6 months before they revert it. By which point, the works will all be off.