I suppose there are a number of factors at play. Here are a few.
1. Some loops at stations may have only one platform due to the cost of maintaining another platform cannot be justified due to normal passenger traffic patterns but the loop can mean Permanent Way equipment and freight traffic can cross with the scheduled service.
2. Sometimes loops are placed in strategic positions to help increase route capacity. Belfast to Londonderry has a number of rural passing loops mainly used during the morning and evening rush hours to facilitate half hourly services.
3. Platforms cost money to maintain so if not required on todays railway they won’t be their.
Usually the biggest factor is traffic levels and planned schedules as loops are an extra expense.
Detail Pack included below the plastic insert into the box.
Includes spare handrails.
Also remember these models are coming with horn and vac hose fitted compared to the original ones
Current plan is 8 trains, each comprising of 8 coaches will be ordered.
it might not be what is got but that’s the plan.
See this link for the general outline of plan.
https://bidstats.uk/tenders/2023/W39/807469160
I would would imagine €230 to €250 mark going on present pricing for these small limited runs.
It shows you why IRM have to cut out the middle man to make it work.
2029 or 2030 at the latest. Nothing new is ordered yet. From the order date it’s three years minimum before a new train arrives here. Plus commissioning, trials, driver training and engineering training. I would say if you ordered now mid 2028 would be good going.
Currently for sale on eBay
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/145710576770?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=k083e4gyS6W&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=k083e4gyS6W&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
The photo above is just a reminder of how good these models were on release over 15 years ago and they still look stunning. Well done Mr Murphy for producing more.
Some NIR coaches available on the Irish Railway Models website.
Locomotives are currently like hen’s teeth and will only improve once someone produces more or new models.