Merseytravel Timetable Changes

[Barney]

RE: Merseytravel Timetable Changes
New 63:

http://www.merseytravel.gov.uk/travellin...015%29.pdf

The flyer that Arriva has produced to promote its revamped North Liverpool services depicts a man yelling something. The caption above the image reads: "We've got something to shout about!" Having just seen the new 63 timetable I suggest that the man is uttering a cry of despair.

As expected the 63 will operate a 30-minute frequency but what really concerns me is its hours of operation and lack of coordination with the Merseyrail service especially in the evening.

At the present time the 53A between Aintree and Crosby provides the following service: first bus 5.13; number of buses between 07.00 and 08.30: 14. From the 25th January when Stagecoach withdraw its 53A the 63 service between Aintree and Crosby will be: first bus 7.48; number of buses between 07.00 and 08.30: 2.

I accept that all services need to be monitored and refined periodically but this drastic reduction of service in the morning peak will have a severe impact on both commuters and the many school children who currently rely on buses to get them to work and school on time and it certainly won't encourage people to leave the car at home and try this service. Yes, I know that Arriva is in the business to make money, but whoever thought up this schedule clearly has no idea as to what he/she is doing.