Layout PlanThe layout is reasonably compact measuring only 7' x 2'8". It stands on three adjustable trestles and has its own bolt on lighting fascia complete with four 40 watt spot lights. Despite the small relative size for an "O" gauge layout it comprises a fairly complex track plan making full use of the tight radius curves afforded by narrow gauge. The basic track plan consists of two entirely unconnected continuous loops of track with the 2'4" (16.5mm) forming the outer most circuit. On the viewing side of the layout, this has a passing loop to allow inward and outbound traffic to pass easily and a small holding siding for storage of goods wagons or locos. A large fiddle loop behind the back scene completes this line. This track consists of standard Peco 0-16.5mm flexitrack and point work, pinned to the baseboard, liberally covered with fine limestone ballast from Gaugemaster and various Woodland Scenics scatters, secured in the time honoured fashion with diluted PVA wood adhesive. The 2' (14mm) line forms the innermost loop and not only does this line also have its own passing facilities and siding but it also possesses a spur leading to a small but fully functional turntable which in turn serves the loco repair workshops and re-fuelling / stabling siding. Many electrically isolated sections are provided in the loco and stabling tracks to allow for a wide variety of locos to be stabled simultaneously. This track has been scratch built from code 80 "N" gauge track and soldered to copper clad sleepers. Roy C. Link templates were used for making the point work. All the visible track is weathered and ballasted over to give the overall and typical impression of the track being buried.
All points are operated using Seep point motors with their internal contacts taking care of the switching of frog polarities. All point control is by probe and stud and the custom designed control panel is situated at the rear of the layout straddling part of the fiddle yard loops. The small turntable uses a motorised clock mechanism which provides the very low gearing needed for manually aligning it by eye. Turntable control is provided by means of the normal feedback controller which is switched from track to turntable as required. Control is afforded by a pair of the excellent "fine control, exhibition standard" handheld switched feedback controllers manufactured by Kent Panel Controls. A small handheld Gaugemaster feedback controller supplements these and can be used to shunt the loco and stabling sidings independently of the two main railway circuits.
A diagram of the basic track plan is shown below :-
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