This second attempt went through numerous planning stages for the trackplan but ultimately it had key features that were set down from the start and were kept throughout the planning revisions - these included the need for a big multi-platform station, a Motive Power Depot and storage lines hidden from the main view. The layout plan initially had two sets of storage sidings at the back, but the inner one was felt to be a bit redundant in operation and was soon replaced with a new scenic section which incorporated a level crossing and Colcester North Hill station. This was the first time experimentation with cutting flexible track was used and also cork underlay for reducing sound on a layout as well, both of which were very successful. Unlike the previous Mk1 layout the number of locomotives was greater too since we now had the means to store them while not in use.

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COLCESTER Mk2a and 2b

The first real change to the plan was the removal of the inner storage yard - this became a scenic double track route with a small station called North Hill (Taken from the original Garage layout) with a footbridge and level crossing, the curve of track was deliberate to allow for some great photo opportunities as trains exited the tunnels at either end and sped through the little station, over the level crossing! Then all change again as Colcester MK 2b was thought up...

Late in 1994, a decision was made to remove everything from the boards despite how far we had come with the layout, and to radically redesign the whole thing. It was never completed...  But had it been seen through it would have seen the station relocated onto the corner of the layout and partially hidden under a cityscape of scenery and had tracks leading down to a continuous loop with storage sidings underneath the main boards, very much like the planned trackwork for the new Mk3 layout will be when finished. The MPD and a small branch line to Colcester North Hill would all be slightly repositioned. The re-think came about due to the operational issues caused by the tightness of the end curves and pointwork at one end of the station, which was causing some derailments and was a nightmare to effectively add the OHLE masts without coaches and trains scraping by. But Mk2a was as we said, never realised fully, and Mk2b was never completed, so we can only wonder at what it might have become....