00 Layout Plan Review

[Birdman]

These are some plans for a layout I am currently constructing. At the time of writing, the track on the left and middle boards is down and resembles the plan of the first image, but is not wired up. Before I proceed any further with the build, I want outside criticism on the plans and advice on how they can be improved.




The collection/dropoff points are intended to be sites for cattle docks or coal staithes, and the final locations of both is yet to be decided.

[Birdman]

Just noticed that the second plan's image does not appear to be showing in the original post.

[RogerB]

I prefer the #2 layout - but that is probably down to my OCD preferring straight lines . Can I ask what the purpose is of the double width platform? I think you would have more scenic capability with just one width - but perhaps you have a cunning plan? R-

[Birdman]

I believe it's to do with the size of the station building I'm using. It's from Hornby's Skaledale line, so it's quite large and requires at least three platform pieces to fit on fully, so I increased the platform width to two widths so to not look out of place. The platform on the plan is not the final design, so it is subject to change.

[RogerB]

Ah, I see. R-

[Bandit Mick]

I'm no layout designer but I prefer number 2 as well - I just don't know why.

[Itch45]

be careful of points in the area of the platforms as to allow for the overhang of locos and coaches you will an unrealistic large gap between the coaches and the platform. If you can it is better to have the platform area of track clear of points.

[Birdman]

Thank you for the warning about the points. I swear that I've been told about that before, but I've clearly not heeded that advice



I've gone and changed the point at the right side of the station to a three-way and moved the platform to the left slightly so that a train using the outer line to turn shouldn't clip the platform backing up. I've also removed one of the sites meant for a cattle dock/coal staithe, as i realised there would be no room for it, which leaves me with the siding on the right side of the station.

[Brian]

Thank you for the warning about the points. I swear that I've been told about that before, but I've clearly not heeded that advice



I've gone and changed the point at the right side of the station to a three-way and moved the platform to the left slightly so that a train using the outer line to turn shouldn't clip the platform backing up. I've also removed one of the sites meant for a cattle dock/coal staithe, as i realised there would be no room for it, which leaves me with the siding on the right side of the station.

Unfortunately your inserted image doesn't seem to work?

[Birdman]

Should be fixed now.