Stagecoach Manchester

[Mayneway]

RE: Stagecoach Manchester and Wigan

(21/05/2016 11:38)Dentonian Wrote:  Given how poor First Manchester's overall investment levels are, it is surprising both have suddenly decided to invest in Tameside. Do they know something we residents don't?

As regards Stagecoach's order; I too, doubt the MAN engined Enviro400s will move now, as this would result in an amazingly low average fleet age for AZ, which might actually impact on other depots. I have noted though, that as these are now nearing 7 years old, they are getting repainted; 19623 was on the 369 the other day looking quite smart, despite the ubiquitous rain.

I think the speculation that ST would get all 53 (more than their total diesel 'decker allocation, now) came because BBPG decided that only one depot per company were getting new buses. I'm told they similarly assumed all Stagecoach North East's MMCs were going to Walkergate depot, wheras they are to be shared between the Newcastle depots.

In all honesty even though any investment is good could it be argued that the Streetlites were ordered for the Manchester group and plonked anywhere? As mentioned by Joe they were mainly to replace the B9's but really would Dukinfield have been better with deckers?

I think the MAN engined Enviro's are good buses. Yes a little sluggish but they have been well looked after at ST and depending on what stockports MMCs get used on I carnt see them going anywhere.

Could it be that stagecoach have purposely waited a couple of years for Metrolink to bed in before making any kind of investment on the 216's as it may have looked like they were trying to compete?