24.1% and counting

Yes, it's getting very gripping for Go Ahead as they are are nearly at the 25% operational limit for operating TFL services. Not only have they taken over Northumberland Park depot and their services. They have also gained 3 more routes to follow last week's gains of Routes 20 and 462. Routes 19, 249 and 493 were successfully transferred over to Go Ahead operations yesterday. This post covers the 19 and 249 while a later post will cover Route 493.

Go-Ahead London - WVL492 - LJ61 NWE - Route 19

Route 19 currently runs from Finsbury Park Station to Battersea Bridge. Its had a fairly short history with Arriva after they only gained the route in 1998. The route was mainly based at Battersea, however they did not have space to house in the full 19 allocation so buses were outstationed in Norwood (N). In 2009, Battersea shut and the whole allocation was moved to Brixton (BN). Yesterday saw the route changed hands to Go Ahead using WVLs and WHVs.

Go-Ahead London - WVL492 - LJ61 NWE - Route 19

Go-Ahead London - WHV29 - LJ61 NVR - Route testing the 19

Another gain from today was Route 249. The route has been with the same operator since it began in 1991, so a 21 year old spell ends. The route runs from Anerley to Clapham Common using WVLs. The route has pent most of its life at Norwood despite the numerous extensions so it must be devastating for Norwood staff to be losing this route.

Go-Ahead London - WVL475 - LJ61 NXE - Route 249

Devastation also lays in for Arriva as they have lost a chunk of work in the past month, resulting in 2 garage closures. I honestly do feel for them and hope that they return to full form in upcoming Tender results.

Go-Ahead London - WVL468 - LJ61 NWX - Route 249

Go-Ahead London - WVL480 - LJ61 NWO - Route 249

Happy Post 99 everyone, we've got special stuff planned for the number 100 so watch this space!