Next Steps

1. The plan is to fix the problematic set of points at the back of the Avenue Station island platform – in the track that links the GWR and LMS lines, and also feeds the exchange sidings. That can only be undertaken when the replacement set of points arrive – expected on Wednesday.
2. The full set of tracks in the exchange sidings then needs to be tested for operability and then the tracks can be secured to the baseboard.
3. Ballasting of the LMS track can then be completed.
4. It may then be appropriate to obtain an automated signal for installing on the LMS side – possibly controlling train movement out of the Avenue Station towards either Coventry of Rugby. This action would provide an indication of the technical issues and cost of signalling the whole layout.
5. Attention would then pass across to the GWR side. There is a lot of work needed on the General Station, and this may begin with the finishing of the platforms (brick sides and paved top surface) before the station buildings are tackled. Those building could well be a job for this next winter as the work can be done indoors!

The layout is currently in a state where trains can be run on most of the lines, and so there will be a lot of fun to be had this Summer in working out an operating timetable and running it.