Old Kent Invasion

The expansion of Metroline continues, with the secondary effect (or cause) of the 16's conversion to the political weapon (Borismaster).

Metroline TEH1233 on Route 168, Old Kent Road Tesco (© Aubrey)

The 168 moved to Metroline under a guessing game of what garage would it be based from. In the end, it was Cricklewood.


Metroline TEH1457 on Route 168, Waterloo (© Aubrey)

There was also some speculation as to the type of buses used by the 168. It turns out it is using the buses displaced from the 16 - ADL Enviro 400Hs.


Metroline TEH1462 on Route 168, Old Kent Road Tesco (© Jacek)

The service is an average service, with a few gaps, which isn't surprising considering it is cross-Central London. Also, due to the traffic prone areas it serves, the service provided is decent. Well done Metroline.


Metroline TEH1459 on Route 168, Waterloo Bridge (© Aubrey)

Notably, this does mean that the 68 group (68/168/468/X68) has finally left Arriva completely, as the 68/468/X68 had been with Arriva as well as the 168, before the 68/468/X68 moved to London Central in 2006.


Metroline TEH1227 on Route 168, Old Kent Road Tesco (CC Aubrey)

Overall, not a bad changeover, even though the turnaround of these buses was quite quick between the LT conversion and the TEHs moving to the 168. The 32 had to have TPs temporarily whilst buses were re-blinded, but this is receding as TAs take over along with more TEs.