Blacon Buses

[knutstransport]

RE: Blacon Buses

(18/10/2016 14:25)iMarkeh Wrote:  Barney: My model collection is big enough. I would like to own a bus company as there are so many viable routes in the area which the majors do not want because they do not make them enough profit.

I agree there's many routes which could be viable which aren't covered. However, I think it would be difficult to start up new routes without getting either a subsidy or having other routes which cover your overheads.

For instance, if you're trying to run a route for commuters which doesn't currently exist then the existing commuters will already have an alternative method of getting to work so they probably wouldn't use your bus on day 1. Jobseekers without cars might start applying for new jobs based on the fact they can use your bus to get to work but that won't create a viable loading overnight.

For tourist attractions they probably won't get that many bus passengers most days. Arriva trialled a Liverpool South Parkway to Speke Hall weekend service. I used that bus on a Heritage Open Day when Speke Hall were offering free admission for the day and going to Speke Hall I was the only person on the bus, going away there were 3 of us on the bus. An average loading of 2 isn't commercially viable!

The 200 bus route between Wilmslow and Manchester Airport with a call at Quarry Bank Mill only exists due to subsidies even though I personally think an extension beyond Wilmslow could boost usage.

Quote:Arr drivers are on £130 per day. I would like to pay drivers around £90 if I can. That would be over an 8 hour shift or so. All drivers would be local as well.

One thing to remember is if you offer a less attractive package you may have a high staff turnover as employees move to other operators for a better package. Then if that happens you'll spend more time and resource on route training.