Stagecoach - an improvement from my last provider (Stagecoach)

Member Name: Loopylooploo

Product:	Stagecoach
Date:	22/05/09 (12 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Frequent buses, easy to use

Disadvantages: Run-down, cramped

I have recently moved to a new area. My previous hometown was Arriva-dominated and the levels of service were extremely varied. In comparison, I have had little contact with Stagecoach until now so I'm approaching it with relatively 'fresh' eyes.

Buses:
The majority of buses I use are double-deckers so there is plenty of room: there's provision for seating / wheelchair / prams / standing individuals. There is also luggage space and bus pass machines (to save time queuing) at the entrance of the bus. (On a personal note, I think this makes the process rather impolite - I've seen people ignore drivers completely simply because of this machine.)

They also provide a range of bus tickets/passes. They range from singles and returns to day passes and 13-week tickets. It sounds silly but in my last place, Arriva did not issue return tickets so you had to buy two singles - the costs was ridiculous! These options provide plenty of choice to suit a wide diversity of needs.

If I have any complaints it is that, as a fairly tall person, I don't have enough leg room when sitting. This isn't so bad if I am the only person on the bus, but needless to say, it can be very uncomfortable when sharing a seat. Also, the buses around here are beginning to look a little run down. (I'm not saying this is going to be the case in general, so you can ignore this if you want, but I have seen a noticeable increase in broken down Stagecoach buses recently, which is letting the service down.)

Drivers:
A completely subjective perspective, I know, but they are the face of the services. Most have been friendly but I don't think the bus pass machine helps as it reduces the interaction between customer and driver.

Timetables:
In comparison to my previous location, buses are far more frequent, particularly during peak travel hours. Timetables are accessible on buses and online, as well as from the bus shelters.

Online services:
The Stagecoach website is fairly navigable. They have kept to their branded colours of blue and white, and sections are typically simple and to the point, but still provides you enough information.

What can you do? Well, you can search timetables, bus services (by region and operator) and buy tickets. For those less familiar with buses for one reaons or another, they even have a section on how to use Stagecoach buses.

I order a month's bus pass online. You simply have to register your details and you are away. Delivery is pretty quick as well - usually about two days. I think they may be meant to issue you with a plastic wallet, I'm not so sure, but the instructions on my ticket always tells me to put it into the Stagecoach-provided wallet. I've never received one.

What I think is worth mentioning is that when you are buying a ticket make sure you don't accidentally tick the wrong box. All tickets for your chosen journey are highlighted in a list, with items pretty close together. It would be simple to check the wrong ticket.

Overall, my experience with Stagecoach is decent, though I do think it can be improved. As such I have found it difficult to give it a scoring. It is nearly a 4 star, but just not quite.

Summary: A service that has potential