Update - Still awaiting my package of tools/equipment from the UK to get cracking again, so thoughts again turned to the backscene. After reviewing a number of other terrific layouts on the forum here, it occurred to me that perhaps it might be better to intoduce a 'proscenium arch' type enclosure to view the layout. This would align with Moorswater viaduct, with the lines passing through as a cut out. The resulting top of the frame could be used to run some small discrete strip lights along the front edge. To get a feel for it I have added it to the 1:10 scale model, which can be seen in the attached photos. I now have to ponder materials suitable for its construction.

I am still in two minds as now the concept of the layout is changing. Originally it was supposed to be a layout constructed on 3 Ikea shelves which, due to the absence of a dedicated railway room, would allow the shelves to be removed, the layout worked on and then the shelves returned back on the wall. The construction of the shelves as bought, whilst are not ideally suited for baseboards, are lightweight, cheap and pretty solid. My concern is that with the introduction of a Ply or MDF front and backscene will make them too heavy. Foamboard as an alternative may be prone to damage due to removal and reinstatement of the shelves on the wall <img src='http://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/icon_confused.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':icon_confused:' />

Comments on the proposals would be very welcome <img src='http://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/icon_biggrin.gif' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':icon_biggrin:' />

A notch is cut to allow the mainline to pass through...

The fiddleyard screen height datum is set by the viaduct...