We'd tidied-up a few loose ends after the Burton show, but now had to decide the future. The initial enquires from the two shows had indicated that more exhibitions were possible, but we wanted to keep modelling. There wasn't anything substantial to do on the layout, so what were we to do? We all agreed that our main interest was building model railways so Geoff's suggestion to build another board met with interest. Theoretically, we could build onto both ends and along the front or back, but these would be mainly scenic boards, possibly with a siding. Geoff's suggestion was to put a new board right in the middle.
We measured how much extra length the workshop could take (Geoff squeezing past the end was the critical factor - his words), and 650mm was the answer. A scrap piece of foam board was trimmed to size and inserted between the two main boards. Paper, pencils, markers, straight edges and track curves came out and the design process had started...
Geoff wanted something to generate more shunting potential and an extra siding had always been on his wish list. Maybe a new feature like a factory, a yard or similar. Stephen argued that Worton Court simply didn't warrant such expansive ideas, but we pressed on, looking at physical trackwork options. Geoff never liked the crossover beside the machine shop, so that would go. A a siding for spare coaches was investigated, but only a couple could be squeezed in and clearances never quite worked.
We soon realised that the trackwork on the existing boards would need to be modified, which would render the current (shorter) layout unexhibitable. However, the new board could be built and the existing boards modified at the very end. What about the loom needing to be extended?
We broke for a late lunch and returned. Stephen suggested an engine house, which we'd always regretted not including in the scheme - the middle area was ideal and two spurs were now available. Investigations ensued.
What if we moved the machine shop? What if we put the engine shed where the goods shed currently stands? Ideas and paper flowed much quicker now.
Homework:
