END OF SEPTEMBER UPDATE 2018

Well, its been a very busy month - and although it might not feel it at times, there has been a culmination of various smaller jobs completed which have added greatly to the larger picture. From simply realigning track to added new gradients to opening the Depot site up, the combination of all this means that there is now a lot to report from the September Update.

Firstly there has been some minor track realignments for smoother running, particularly in and out of Colcester Junction where a slight rise in board level was causing some issues. This has now been fixed.

Secondly I have started to replace the Hornby Gradients piers for a much stronger Sundeala board ramp whilst at the same time extending the length of the gradient to make it easier for trains to travel up. Whilst there were no problems with the down ramps, the up ramps were still too steep to take anything over three coaches long. So a two part strategy is being employed - this will involve the ramp replacements to give a solid surface for the track and a slightly longer run, and then there will also be the addition of a product from DCC Concepts which places a metal strip under the track and is used in conjunction with small magnets fixed to the trains. This will have the effect of pulling the train onto the track to increase traction. Its a wonderfully simple idea and will help no end.

I`m also now thinking towards scenery...

A start will be made in October on the Colcester International Platforms. Initially this will be platforms 3.4.5.6.7 and 8. If time, money and materials permit then I may also do Furman Smithy Station too. I will also make a start on the retaining wall on the far side of Colcester Junction, I will extend the signal box plinth to include space for the Power feed station and fix these building in place.

Also in conjunction with the scenery comes the Overhead wires and masts - we are having a slight change of plan to the original concept as it looks like we will be using mostly Hadley JV masts with PECO catenary wires for nearly all tracks, with maybe the upper loop line using Dapol masts.

Lastly, work started on Colcester Depot with the two old HST Sheds pressed into work as Javelin Sheds for Class 395 maintenance. This area will have a small parking area, an access kiosk, office building and a road ramp connection to a bridge over the four track section.

Here are a small selection of pictures for you all...