Arriva North West - Wythenshawe Depot

[dounowhoiam]

RE: Arriva North West - Wythenshawe Depot

(29/04/2020 21:47)iMarkeh Wrote:  Abellio don't like commercial work (look at Surrey) so it would be a big risk. In the unlikely event Clown Burnham isn't re-elected or franchising doesn't happen. I would 100% see them trying to keep their options open and put in an offer ready but I can't see them wanting to conclude any sale until such a time franchising is confirmed.

From my understanding of Arriva Wythenshawe's financial history; they have suffered significant loss in the last decade or so. With the Metrolink initially hitting their profits on the Altrincham line affecting 263 (and simular) routes, loss of gains with tender routes like the 20, the Airport line cutting customer numbers for 18 (which ceased commercial operation) and 19 (which faced multiple commercial changes that only upset customers further) and losing evening tender routes (less Arriva ticket buyers) making the depot a lot less valuable to the North West operations.

I do hope that Franchising does come into form despite the financial implications COVID-19 has caused. Operators will not be likely to bring back commercial routes to the frequency prior to the outbreak, therefore for best possible savior for public transport would be to a not focus on making as much profit as possible with operators that favour a franchise route be a better fit for Wythenshawe that despite financial issues is in a good location for those who depend on public transport to get around.