Something Else’s Up

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On Tuesday I made mention of search engine activity culminating in hits to this site looking for “First Group Laidlaw” or similar. I remarked that there was something in the air. Expect some firm news on this deal, today.

Well, First is there again in the search engine stakes, only to a lesser extent, with a modestly popular search link of “First and Chesterbus”. Is it possible that Chesterbus will pass to First Group? This is speculation, of course, but in support of this contention, Omnibuses’ Northern Correspondent writes:

“Industry watchers in the north west are linking First and Chesterbus. First is understood to be keen on re-establishing itself in the area, following January 2006’s withdrawals from Ellesmere Port on Chester’s doorstep, which subsequently saw Arriva snapping up as commercial some of First’s former Ellesmere Port area routes.”

The essence of the January 2006 situation was the closure of Ellesmere Port outstation. This resulted in the cancellation of some local bus registrations, because First’s modestly sized Chester garage had only a limited capacity to take on former Port vehicles. It also caused a furore in Westminster.

Omnibuses’ Northern Correspondent continues, “Chesterbus is reported to be having a bit of a clear out at the moment. Some of its older stock is leaving or about to do so. One enthusiast quipped that this wouldn’t leave many buses behind! The fact is, it would seem that matters are afoot and the predictions are that Chesterbus will pass to whatever buyer by mid-February. The deal may already be set and we are just awaiting the announcement.”

That, then, leaves the knotty problem of Arriva’s competitively registered services, the subject of what we understand is a still unresolved high court battle. This followed an offer by Arriva to take routes, without Chesterbus’ valuable property. Would Arriva now wish to see itself in conflict with First? And what would the competition authorities think of Chesterbus passing to an established local player, if this is true?

And then there’s the real issue for whomsoever gets Chesterbus. How will they address the hugely unfavourable peak vehicle requirement and realistically reinvest in newer buses?