This little chap arrived on the doorstep yesterday (thanks scanman!)

So, nice though it is, it won't fit on my track so my thoughts have turned to what to do. For a while the "home" layout has not really been in use, the main problem is extensive use of setrack rad 1 curves which means that a lot of locos can't handle it. For servicing purposes I have needed a rad 2 loop for some time.

Back in the mists of time the original board (extreme right hand of the diagram above) was a simple loop, so if I were to re-instate that, scrap the middle section that leaves the "top" board over the PC on the left free for a new layout....

The shape of the cutaway for the PC set me thinking, it's kinda harbour shaped, so that's the plan. A homage to Padstow depicting the north quay looking towards the Metropole Hotel but with the sidings and fish sheds behind where the current Harbourmasters office is. There will be a LOT of modeller's licence although I hope a reasonable model of the Custom House (before it was a pub) will emerge.

Track will be handbuilt, probably using Marcway components to save cost as this is going to be pricey at £30 for a wagon kit.

I hope to make it all fit in in the 7 foot length, but make it removeable for shows, possibly with an add-on fiddle yard to the right.