Eventually got round to thinking about signals.Although the layout is S&D based during the 50's I thought by changing the signals from SR upper  quadrant to WR lower quadrant  the layout could be run as  different region with different rolling stock.Was thinking of using Dapol motorised.I realise WR signal practice was different but wanted some thoughts on my thinking as shown on the track plan. Pink is passenger  while blue can be considered as goods.Should a junction bracket be at A or B? Thoughts please.

No thoughts on signals but my suggestion is first to download the trial version of Anyrail (free) here:

Anyrail download
You can test if your ideas will work in your available space^#, an essential first step as you have the potential for some tight curves there. All the track libraries anyone below track building pro could want. Plenty on here are users.

The freebee version goes up to 50 track sections which can get you further than you'd imagine. I liked it so much I bought the full version and never regretted it for one moment. (no connections, just a happy user :cool:)

Colin

 # it has some excellent diagnostic tools if you delve into the available information. Ask if more info needed.

I tend to agree with Colin and think that you will benefit from drawing up the layout to scale in one of the software packages or laying the track down to see what will fit on your baseboard. I use anyrail and enjoy it. 
Then you can look at positioning signals, platforms and buildings more accurately. 

Why would I want anyrail?

Hi Dave

I am not a GWR expert (or follower) but can't believe that they wouldn't follow the same basic rules as everyone else.

Therefore, signals would be placed to protect running lines by giving the signalman a way to communicate with train drivers.  Sidings and spurs, not used by running trains, can be controlled locally but the signalman would have a ground signal under his control to authorise access from those sidings back onto running lines.  Run-round loops and tracks on which trains would arrive (including your loop) would be classed as a running line rather than "freight" or "passenger".

The "block" under the signalman's control is defined as the space between his home signal and his advanced starter (or starter if there is no advanced starter).  Trains would not be allowed outside the block without the permission of the next signalman along the line.  At a terminus, there is no home signal so the block is buffers-advance starter.

Therefore, your advance starter should be beyond the crossover points where the blue loop re-joins the red running line allowing for sufficient space for whatever shunting might take place on the running line (to the right of the crossover).  Somewhere opposite your bracket signal or between the two arrowheads looks OK.

I am not sure whether a train would start from point A when departing but I would think that the signalman would need a signal to control access to the running line from that spot - even for light engines running round the train in the platform.  I would put a double ground signal in there.  The NER (who loved signals) would put two signals on a post - not sure how the GWR would deal with it.

You would certainly need another signal allowing a train to exit the loop onto the running line where you have placed one before the quarry.  That signal would, I think, be a bracket - the exit signal on a tall post on the right and one of those delightful GWR "ringed" signals (perhaps) on the shorter, left-hand post.

If your plan is based on one or more prototypes, take them as your inspiration.  Unfortunately, we are all prone to shortening our trackplans down to make signalling tricky.

Hope that's some help!

Barry

Thanks for your input. At least someone read the post properly!

Dave

I'm not sure the guys fully appreciated how well advanced you were with your layout!

It is looking very good.  The dairy and quarry will be giving you loads of traffic options and, as a GWR fan, you get the benefit of those lovely Autocoach trains, clerestory stock and as many pannier tanks as you can manage.

I am not a GWR modeller but did dabble back in the day when I got into N gauge and the only British outline stuff was GWR - I'm talking late 1970's.  Since then I have returned to OO and have managed layouts in MR (1920's) and now BR(NE)Region 1960's.

Everybody on the forum has something to offer and you are sure to get plenty more advice from many sources.  The great thing about advice is that you don't have to take it - but it's still useful to have.

We look forward to seeing more about Westcombe.

Barry