A new Club Layout!

For some time members have wanted a '00' layout in the club. A number of ideas were considered but for various reasons did not really suit our needs. Finally this idea was developed and started early in 2006. Baseboards have been built and we are now at the stage of laying track, as can be seen in the photographs below.

The main considerations are ease of carrying, speed of erection and simple but interesting operation. It uses the baseboards and track we already had.

The concept is a double track main line with a through station and goods yard, based loosely on Midland Railway track layouts. The platforms will probably be staggered for visual effect and to make the best use of space. The station area is about 16 inches wide. Behind the station and back scene is an 8 inch wide space for hidden loops. This will allow us to operate the railway in a realistic way, or simply to let trains run round while we chat and enjoy coffee.

The sketch above shows the "dog bone" shape of the track, with a station on the front and hidden sidings at the rear. This will allow for realistic operating or continuous running.