Wotcha!
I decided to have a relief from working on the boards and so I tackled the question of the signal box. Looking through the offerings of the laser cutters, I went hunting a small GW signal box. I want small buildings on this layout so that the view stays open and spacious. I selected the model of Llansantffraid Crossing signal box from Rail Model as being suitably small and understated. A very nice model to build (my first laser cut kit) and here it is plonked on the platform.
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The problem is that it is too small to hold the number of levers required for Holme Lacy and to also have the three and half feet clear at either end of the frame so that the signal man can stand to the window. I consulted my copy of Mr Smiths book on GW signalling and also Stephen Williams book on GW Branch Line Modelling. The answer was obvious, I had to have a Type 5 signal box. 'What is a Type 5 signal box', you may ask, as I did a few days ago. Well it is a small standard brick and wood box that is mounted on the platform. Well, as always with the GW, standard is as standard is. So lots of variation. The one thing I haven't found is one with a hip roof which I would like to have had. After five days I have got to this stage.
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This my second signal box in fifty (ouch) years of modelling and will obviously need a fully fitted interior as you can see in through those huge windows. Of signal box interiors, "I know nuuthing". So more research and I need to source those bits that are available from the trade. Any ideas?
This building will use up most of my stock of plasticard other than the box of small odds and sods that we all keep but rarely use. Thus I have placed an order with a well known emporium for the plasticard needed to start on the station buildings.
I think I need to do some work on the platforms as these cardboard jobs are now too short and too narrow. For this I shall fight some very curvy 4mm ply sheet into some form. Should this end up looking like two platforms, I will count myself very lucky.
Stay Safe and Happy.
Simon
PS Llansantffraid Crossing signal box is too nice to leave in a box and will thus need its own diorama. Something to stick on a shelf or a corner of the desk to look lovingly at the latest creation?