There are three main issues with the existing service.
1/ It isn't integrated as the rail operator charges a separate fare to use it. While you can buy a combined ticket most don't so it leads to long queues and people who already have a ticket still queue behind those that don't at Parkway.
2/ The frequency is every 10 minutes which might not seem a long time but it is when the bus in front has pulled out in front of you because you couldn't board that bus because of the queue.
3/ The capacity of the buses has gone down hill since last March. With only one bendy bus now in service the chances are that you will be left standing as you head for the airport.
The simple fix
1/ Remove the fare. It used to be free and without it would save alot of time. The fare could be integrated in some way with the standard rail fare to the station.
2/ Double the frequency to every 5 minutes.
3/ Make sure all buses are high capacity bendy buses.
Now if they did that would some sort of rail link be actually needed?
Other points to ponder about a replacement rail link or equivalent.
1/ Would they charge a fare to use it? If they did they have gained nothing.
2/ What would be the frequency?
3/ What would be the capacity?
It could well be that apart from a capacity increase nothing else would change apart from a 5 or 6 minute bus ride becoming a 4 minute rail trip. If my simple fix was carried out would there really be a case for spending 10's of millions on a replacement?
Last edited by LTNman; 28th Nov 2015 at 06:26.