What will fit?

Space is a constant issue for modellers and there’s naturally a limit as to what can be squeezed into the available area. This 3ft by 2ft diorama provides plenty of room for two sidings, as well as a single-track branch line in the foreground. Aiming to recreate the atmosphere of a typical small station goods yard, as found in rural and suburban locations, a pair of turnouts (or a single three-way point) would give access to the yard from the branch line. These points are just off- scene, as is the small wayside station, which would share its approach road with the goods yard entrance. The yard provides plenty of space for a variety of scenic structures, such as a goods shed, coal bunkers, cattle dock and weighbridge, without the area appearing overly cramped. Furthermore, up to eight short-wheelbase wagons can be accommodated on each siding. The branch line will inevitably be blocked during shunting operations, as empty and loaded wagons are exchanged by the local pick- up freight, but this would add operational interest to a fairly simple track plan. A medium-sized shed building has been employed here, suggesting that the station serves a small town or large village that generates a decent amount of incoming and/or outgoing freight. For smaller yards, a diminutive shed will suffice. Timber, brick or concrete huts were a common feature of such yards, providing safe, covered storage for vulnerable goods, such as foodstuffs or cattle feed and fertiliser. In addition to the essential goods handling facilities, I decided to include a small water tower for this late BR steam- era setting, allowing locomotives to top up their tanks after their shunting duties have been completed.