Commons Crossing Micro Layout

[Celtic_transport]

Hi All, Some of you may remember my previous post on here about my "Moathill PWD" layout, which was based on a stub of the former Navan to Kingscourt line. Unfortunately due to a number of factors I had to dismantle it and start from scratch (again). That layout isn't dead in the water however, as I plan to incorporate both it and this new layout into a much larger project in the future.

This new layout is based on the level crossing on the Commons road in Navan. My dad used to bring me there when I was a child in the mornings on my way to school, where we would catch the morning tara mines train passing through. It's my first memory of real life railway goings on, and brings back many fond memories.

The layout is even smaller than Moathill, at 4ft x 1ft with only a 2x1 scenic section, however there will be 2ft fiddle yard extensions either end, to allow more accurate trains to pass through. It will be set between 1964 and 2009, allowing me to run gypsum, Taras, per way, and a collection of liveries and different locos. I plan on using dcc to add to the atmosphere, and I'm also researching about converting my existing stock to 21mm gauge, to make it as accurate as possible.

baseboard is complete, next is track laying! Thanks for tuning in.

[Celtic_transport]

Cork Laid! Track is slightly askew as im on the hunt for 21mm track bases! 124 waiting patiently for her driver to open the gates on her way to kingscourt light engine.

[dropshort105]

Oh, I know that crossing well, I'm really looking forward to seeing this one.

[west_clare_wanderer]

Very nice. You've made a good start with what looks like a well made baseboard. That photo of 006 really whets the appetite! 

Looking forward to seeing what you do with this. 

On 31/7/2026 at 5:25 PM, Celtic_transport said:

I'm also researching about converting my existing stock to 21mm gauge, to make it as accurate as possible.

Someone else will be along with far more knowledge and skill to give some assistance (like @Mol_PMB or @Horsetan!!), but as I understand some of the IRM rolling stock is easier than others to convert. I seem to recall that the earlier gypsum/ballast hoppers are a little trickier. But don't take any advice from a bodger like me! I'm sure the experts on here will be able to guide you. Good luck!

 

 

Edited 22 hours ago by west_clare_wanderer

[Celtic_transport]

Working out viewing angles today as i continue my research into 21mm gauge. Unsure as to which side i should put the back scene on, any help would be greatly appreciated.

124+134 double head a short per way train from Kingscourt bound for Drogheda.

[DoctorPan]

Looks promising! What is the source of the cottage? 

[Celtic_transport]

7 minutes ago, DoctorPan said:

Looks promising! What is the source of the cottage? 

https://www.petitepropertiesltd.com/new-railway/1-76th-oo-gauge.html
 

bought off this website over 2 years ago. Its not going to be on the final layout, as the actual cottage is different, just using it for reference:)