MidlandRed.net

Geezer, have you ever thought about an extended run to Redditch from Bromsgrove for the 202?
I'm sure this be a big hit for those from Frankley and Rubery as the First 143 takes forever.

As a semi-permanent organism on the 202, I'd like to see an extension on the route, either from Halesowen to Merry Hill, or Bromsgrove to Redditch. However, I don't see that being too likely; any such extension would require one more bus plus one driver's wages ect, and any increase in the money taken on the route might not justify an extension. Currently, on its good days, the 202 is a well-paying route, thanks to the rapport that the drivers have created with the passengers.

On the subject of the 202, has anyone got any information (timetable, ect) on its running from Midland Red days before Stevensons took over.

Quoted from John

On the subject of the 202, has anyone got any information (timetable, ect) on its running from Midland Red days before Stevensons took over.

Midland Red West ran the service in 1988, I believe from Redditch Garage. First bus 202 Field Ln to H/owen 0656. First through bus from B’grove 0815. Buses then ran  at 20mins past the hour. Last bus from B/grove 1820, with a 202 from the Rose and Crown Rubery at 1900.

To Rednal Traffic Island from Field Ln the first bus was a 203 at 0644. A 203 from H/owen at 0715 Missing Leach Green Lane, via Bristol Road, Lickey road. A 202 at 0815 then 20mins past from H/owen. Last through bus 1720, with a 1820  to Rubery.

I was at Digbeth at the time and we ran a 202 at 2310 from H/owen to Kitwell for 2326 Mon to Sat.

An extension to the Merry Hill Centre I believe was on under Ludlows, But stopped at Halesowen because of the 002/004/007. 2 of those no longer run there, so maybe this could be reconsidered?

As for the Redditch side, a 202 extension would give passengers a better service. a 202 from B/grove at 25 mins past would be 5 mins after the 143 but arrive faster if operated direct ie X3 route, this would give a near 30 min service 202/X3. Stand F at Redditch Bus Station should be free on 202 arrival, at approx 45 min past.

I have said before on this forum. I have worked at Ludlows and know these 202 drivers. These drivers are the best on any system, and firmly believe these guys would make it work for Diamond.