Well, I've got a track plan. Of sorts...
Twin track mainline will span the entire length of the running area, simulating the Cork - Dublin mainline. Access to either point section of Shannarch West Junction is currently only accessible from the Western end of the line, subject to change as I may put in a crossover at the Eastern side of the junction. The black line between the mainline and the depot is to represent what will be palisade fencing.
There will be a number of features to the depot, modelling as mentioned, a somewhat medium sized depot, able to cater for all sizes of locos in a number of ways.
From left to right we have:
Loco Washing Plant - Because who wants dirty locos!?
Fuelling Point / Load Bank Point - I haven't decided what I'm going to do at this point. I like the idea of having 071s and 201s with DCC Sound being "plugged in" to check engine levels (or rather, running at Notch 8 whilst stationary), which is why I'm leaning towards making this part a Load Banking Point.
Loco Shed B - As described in the image, Loco Shed B will be for light day-to-day maintenance and overnight stabling. Refuelling facilities may be included in this shed if the Load Bank area is to go ahead.
Thunderbird Loco Stabling Siding - Like many British mainline stations, there will be a "Thunderbird" loco plonked here, on permanent standby ready to be dispatched to rescue a train at a moments noticed. This will be on the 'Mainline' side of the fence.
Carriage Siding - Fairly self explanatory. The siding will be long enough to accommodate a short rake of coaches, maybe in for light maintenance or storage for example.
Wheel Lathe - Locos and rolling stock are not exempt from wheelflats, regardless of what country they're operating in. This single road shed will feature lifting jacks within it, and be the location where said locos and coaching stock get their tyres turned.
Main Loco Shed - Again, as per the description on the track plan. This shed should be long enough to hold at least two 071s buffers to buffers. This will be the shed where heavy maintenance and overhaul of locomotives and their respective parts will take place.
I'm not sure if it's over the top or remarkably simple, but, I can just picture it when I'm finished looking splendid, with lots of little areas to focus.
I just have to get around to actually making it a reality... Think I'll be taking many notes from the likes of Everard Junction's YouTube channel regarding things like ballasting and track weathering!
Comments and thoughts are more than welcome folks!