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THE SCALEFOUR SOCIETY 18.83 LAYOUT CHALLENGE |
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THE SCALEFOUR SOCIETY 18.83 LAYOUT CHALLENGE |
FRAMPTON by Paul Eason
THE FACT
Authorisation to construct a line to Frampton Cotterell (Frampton) was granted by Act of Parliament dated 1865. The Midland Railway constructed the line as a twig off the Yate to Thornbury branch which opened in September 1872. The iron stone mines at Frampton were just one of the varied deposits of minerals to be found in this area of South Gloucestershire. Unfortunately the expectations of the developers were not achieved, the iron stone deposits were quickly depleted resulting in closure of the line in 1878. The Yate to Thornbury line continued to operate under LMS ownership losing passenger services in 1944. Freight services continued into the early 1960s when the line was closed and lifted. In the early 1970s the line was reinstated and new track laid to serve the limestone quarry at Tytherington. In this form the line survives today although trains are few. Most of the Frampton line has been covered by modern development, but earthworks and bridges remain in several locations.
THE FICTION
My plan assumes the Frampton area flourished and the Midland Railway upgraded their line to tap the expanding traffic from the mines. Passenger services were introduced between Frampton and the junction with the Yate to Thornbury line at Iron Acton. In the context of my proposed model the line survived under LMS ownership and is portrayed in the early 1950s decline. Freight and mineral traffic is light and the passenger service reflects the increasing use of motor transport.
THE MODEL
In meeting the 18.83 Challenge the model is within the size limitation, fully self contained, transportable in a Peugeot 206 and designed for exhibition use. The model also sets a personal challenge. As I have never built such a model before the design is achievable both from a skills and timescale perspective. The model of Frampton will include scratch built Midland features and an example of rolling stock from principal manufacturers.
The philosophy behind Frampton is: to produce a basic 18.83 Challenge compliant model for use at home and exhibitions; to develop my skills, techniques and confidence in S4; to construct complementary rolling stock in brass, white metal and plastic; to provide the basis for having some fun both in building and exhibiting.
