You could move the door to open outwards rather than into the room or remove it or have a sliding door depending on space outside the room... sad to see it change but a new layout build is always fun too ..whatever you do im sure we will all support and follow your progress.. you could do a farewell video showing the whole layout before it disappears ..
Good luck Paul. I do love your videos and the way you create and present them. I will continue to watch and learn. I would enjoy seeing what do during tear down and rebuild. Cheers - Larry.
Hi Paul, Eddie from Herne Bay we have met briefly at one of the shows, really sorry to hear of your predicament as such, have been watching your channel with great interest over last few years and found it very informative and picked up lots of information & tips from your layout, shame it cannot be relocated especially after all the hard work involved getting it to this stage, hopefully will come back to it at some stage, what a decision to make, really must be gut wrenching, but good luck with your artwork and supporting channel. Eddie🤓
that's really a nice layout with lots of equipment. Sad to tear apart. But there also is an upside. The creation of a layout is very exiting and you now are able to make something completely different. I myself had a layout in ho scale in a spare bedroom. I was so fed up with those short trains, so i sold my trains and built a new layout, with the same theme, but now in n scale. Maybe that could give you the possibility to run the same long trains you do today although in a smaller space. The best stock could of course be spared for the future. Anyway good luck with the new Railway ! Thanks for the video !
Hi Paul sorry to hear this news, I know how it feels to have to takedown/move a layout. Do you have space in your garden for a log cabin type structure that could be a studio or new train room? If not the door on the new room could be changed to open out. Could your loft be converted? I hope you get it up and running sooner rather than later, we all need our hobbies as a distraction sometimes.
Hi Paul, have enjoyed watching the progress of Sandling and especially learning from both your skills and the mistakes along the way. Hopefully if you do end up based out of a new studio there it gives you more time back on the trains in their new room. Will look forward to your future videos on weathering etc. I’m sure someone will get in touch who can assist with a professional design for your new room. My skills on anyrail are not up to that level! Wish you all the best as you make the changes, take care of yourself.
I feel for you Paul, I know what a hard, gut wrenching decision that was for you to have to make. You will in the future have the excitement of starting over again, I remember your excitement of starting No Name Junction..hold onto that thought! Hard as it was for you, with all things considered I feel you've made the right decision. You've always got my support x
"This is not the end. Merely an interruption. I'll be back." I like that. Yes; I would love to see the transformation into a working studio/gallery, and, of course, any modelling updates on what's going on at the workbench. As a full-time professional fine artist, I can relate. They say that what a model railroading hobby needs is time, space, and money, and rarely does one have all three. I share a studio with my wife, who is also an artist, but thankfully have the space for a decent sized railroad, on which I began construction two years ago. As for time--that's a whole other thing! The painting earns the money, so that is always first. Sometimes, like right now, things are really busy, and we find ourselves putting in six or seven day weeks in the studio. Times like this are frustrating as little progress is made on the railroad. However, with the colder months approaching, and outdoor work coming to a close for the year, hopefully these hours can be converted to train time. So, back to you--I'm sure that you've made the correct decision (for now) and that the new studio/gallery space will be wonderful. And hopefully, you'll find some time to spend at the workbench and in the design of even a small diorama that you can run, switch, and scenic. I wish you the very best, and I will continue to follow and look for new videos. Happy Painting, and Happy Modelling! Bradley Hendershot in Pennsylvania.
I'm going to be really interested in the new layout plan. You're in a situation that I faced about eighteen months ago except your layout is much further along than mine was. I am desperately trying to come up with a plan for that size. It is heartbreaking for sure but the next layout of mine will be an improvement because of what I've learned so far. An opportunity for a whole new bunch of mistakes! Chin up Paul, good decisions can be hard but make life easier in the end. I'll be watching for sure!!!
I can understand your predicament completely, ones shed is never big enough as is my case ,your work is the important thing for you at the moment, once you are retired, just rethink your life once again, great channel, many thanks from down under in Wairoa New Zealand
Sorry to see you go Paul, your videos have been inspiring and your weathering exceptional. Look forward to anything at all railway you can video/post in the future.
Hi Paul, I feel both your pain and excitement! I lost the space earmarked for my layout and have ended up in a small shed . While packing up I came across a long forgotten box of Dublo 3 rail. Fits my space perfectly. Am really enjoying getting back to basics (and hammering Ebay 😆). The space you have sounds perfect of a double track country branch or secondary main line. Can't wait to see what you come up with! Smaller layouts are better anyway, more chance of finishing it. 😉
Good luck Paul I just made similar decision due to having to move due to health reasons You have loads of locos that need weathering that 33 for one lol good luck mate
A tough decision to make Paul but in situations like this, I always look for the positives. There must be a bit of excitement with the prospect of starting a new smaller layout that in turn, might be a little less momentous to work on and potentially complete. I'd be happy to help with track plan ideas in the new room/space. Even if you're not ready to start on a new layout, having some track plan ideas to mull over in the interim can help keep that railway modelling spirit alive. That aside, I've always throughly enjoyed watching your channel and look forward to your future endeavours. Take care, Julian
I was a bit worried when this video started thinking you were going to announce final closure ! But then was glad to hear you are not giving up the hobby. A hard decision, but you will probably find there are advantages to building a smaller layout. E.g. you are more likely to get it pretty well finished! The room I use for my vintage (Hornby Dublo) layout is about the same size or smaller than the room in your house. I’ll keep watching out for future new videos. Thanks for all I have learned from you.
Oh no! I only subscribed today. Really sorry to hear you are dismantling the railway. I’m sure you will find a way to continue in one form or another and gain satisfaction from the hobby. Best of luck.👍
Hi Paul, so sorry to hear the news, that must have been such a hard decision to reach, I have enjoyed the journey. A pause can often be a crucible for new ideas (it was for me), so take your time and something satisfying will emerge.
Oh crikey Paul, real life getting in the way! Sorry you had to make that decision but needs must and at least you’re going to build another one if a bit smaller. I wasn’t allowed to have a model railway in the house, so bought a log cabin for the garden. It’s a great space 20’ x 10’, might be worth considering. As for another layout in the space available might be worth keeping it fairly simple, maybe a double track oval with hidden storage yards at the back and a nice junction station and town scene. With your artistic talents it will look great I’m sure. As for video’s of the pull down, why not just do an overview showing how it turns out. I look forward to what you do in the future Paul, cheers for now, John
So sorry Paul to hear you are dismantling Sandling Junction. I have followed this layout from the beginning, and now it’s very sad to see it go. But I understand your decision, as your life and work are the priority. Enjoyed watching the last run about on Sandling, now I look forward to seeing what ever plans you have for your new layout. Take care, and stay safe 👌🏻
Hi Paul - I am totally gutted that the layout is going but I fully understand why. Like you say you do not really have a choice. At least you are going to build another layout, somewhat smaller and that I will definitely want to watch. For a moment I thought the channel was going so you will not lose me. Personally I do not want to watch it being dismantled but that is just me as I found the end of your update very sad. I hope you are going to keep all your trains and carriages and just box them up for when in the distant future you might return to this wonderful layout room. We can live in hope. I dont always like watching running sessions but yours I do, dont know why but I just love watching your running sessions. So now we wait for the smaller room conversion, cannot wait. All the best for painting side though. Regards Chris
Hi Paul, I faced the need to create a new layout following a house move in Feb 2021. Here are some random jottings that may prove useful. Your time frame of 18 months till trains run again matches my experience, if the new double track (upper deck) mainline is completed next week! The current train room (aka integral garage) is 2m shorter than previously. It is 3m long x 2.7 wide. Accordingly and as suggested by my wife I have created a two level layout to provide the facility for ‘out and back’ operation, plus an engine shed, terminus, 4 road hidden storage facility and a branch line design, terminating at mid level. Packing up was easier than I had Imagined as I’d not fully unpacked from the previous move 6 years previously! A tip I spotted was to wrap my models in acid free tissue to protect the paint finishes. Salvage as much wood as you can as the price has rocketed, along with everything else! My doorway access utilises my sliding tray design (x 2) we discussed previously and a sliding door to the house utility room was created as I’m at an age where crawling under baseboards is no longer feasible. ‘Anyrail’ was my preferred software for track planning and has proved invaluable. If you would like a copy of my design please let me know. To link the levels I’ve creased a double track R3/R4 helix inspired by Charlie at ‘Chadwick’ and was significantly supported in it’s creation by tech support from Ed and James at DCC Train Automation. These random notes are to comfort you in the loss of the initial ‘Sandling’ and to help you retain your creative model railway mojo, going forward. Good Luck and Happy Modelling, Best Regards, T🚂
Sad to hear your breaking it up, as someone else wrote worth looking at Peter Dixon's channel for inspiration on a small layout. He packs a hell of a lot of interest into a small 7ft x 6ft layout, he's videos are always interesting.
I don't know if I am more shocked or more sad. I have spent the last 6 years trying to build my layout and I really hope it will start next month. I have boxes and boxes of buildings and some dioramas. I am at this very moment painting some trestles for the workshops. I wish you all the best for the future and if there is anything LNER related that you would part with please let me know. I have followed your build for a long time and it has given me some ideas. How about a video of the cock-ups. That's if you ever get the time. Martin. (Thailand)
Hi Paul I have enjoyed your videos, I will be looking forward to future videos as you could look at Sandling Junction hitting the pause button for the moment.
Your into was said with a tear in your eye and I said to myself, the Railway is to end. I hope you are able to keep this Idea of a layout, albeit much smaller. perhaps Hythe the terminus. Sandling junction revised is my idea Your hobby is just that, a hobby. Your main arts come first especially if income is involved. I love All the videos I wish I had your drive. I hope to see what comes up in future, ALL the very Best JT
I would watch the take-down - you can do a hi-speed. In a smaller room, an end-to-end with a fiddle yard (sliding cassette) at both ends could work? With a super detailed bit in the middle?
Sad to hear Paul, if it based on space consider changing to N gauge but if it is about the time they take you need the Tardis! All the best Paul, I'm sure you will be back soon.
Hi Paul, I was in the situation you face a few years ago. In the end I built a new 5 x 3m cabin in my garden and put a much smaller layout in half of that. Hope you work out a plan for your retirement. My layout space is in a L shape 8ft 7" and 6ft 6" tight but interesting.
Dear Paul, although I do understand your mesmerizing on your layout combined with the necessary space for your art studio, the two indeed seem at first glance to be conflicting in terms of space and maybe attention, I humbly think it’s sad to see your layout go. Foremost, because the presence of a layout (let’s say a smaller one) in an art studio could and should be another source of inspiration. Modeling in general, and model railroading are forms of art, although underestimated and undervalued. Especially where art is about the creative aspect and the creation of our very own worlds, there absolutely is a connection. No need to persuade you, however, with these words I certainly hope you will revisit your decision. Also think it’s good to say that with this very layout, you’ve learned a lot. Obviously about modeling and model railroading, but also (I humbly add) about yourself. A smaller rendition of a layout may just do the trick. Anyhow, thanks for all the episodes. Didn’t look for your art, or artistic tutorials yet. Please share a link. I will check it out.
Thank you for all of that Vincent very kind thoughts.If you google my name Paul Apps or Paul Apps Artist, I will show up all over the place. I have two main art channels, watercolour, and oils. I also have a Patreon channel, patreon.com/paulappsartist hope you like what you see, cheers P
Dear Paul Please remember you have great friends in the Hobby and always will do. Yes Model Railway's have helped me through some sad times . I'm Retiring next week and because of health problems I'm going to live in a Residential home. So I have been reducing my scale from O Gauge to OO and in the loo at year To N Gauge. Never thought I would but it's the only way to have a working model Railway layout in my Studio Room with en suite that will be my living space . I count my blessings and embrace my new chapter in life . My OO gauge I have given to a friend and his young children are loving it and taking it forward.the O Gauge has all been sold upsetting but had to be done . Strangely I used to have N gauge for 35 years about 20 years . So I wish you well I had tears but the decision was brought on with failing health so it had to be done. My N Gauge Model Railway layout is now six feet by one foot plus three foot foot fiddle yard so I'm very lucky . Runs on top of a bookcase cupboard etc . It's in a light box so a feature. Best wishes Richard Crompton.
Sad to hear sandling going on the back burner but exciting plans for your future hope everything goes to plan 🤞all the very best see you soon thankyou for all your videos
Hi Paul. So sorry to see you take up your layout. I am sure you have thought this out. There is nothing wrong with downsizing. In fact sometimes it can be more beneficial. Keep the videos coming. I really enjoy them. Paul
Thanks Paul. When I saw the title of the video pop up, I guessed that this was going to be the end of the layout. But at least you're doing it for rational reasons, and it's not being forced on you for health reasons or whatever. As you say, this sort of thing is forced on most of us at some point. Personally I would suggest that you film, or at least photograph, the removal of the layout. Just so you have the record. If you don't have the record, you'll wish you had. You might never put it up here, but at least you'll have it. If you do go ahead with Sandling Mark II, then a few minutes timelapse of the removal of Sandling I could be your intro to Sandling II. Whatever you do, don't throw the wood away! Have you seen the price of wood now?!?!? The potential new room is certainly a bit smaller, and may prove a challenge, particularly as my impression is that you like watching trains go by, rather than fiddly shunting etc. You mentioned your turntable - I can't remember having seen you ever you use it! Maybe you could move down a scale so you could get longer runs in the smaller room. If you want people to help with ideas, you probably need to post a plan and/or photos of the room when you're ready to restart modelling. Good luck!
Hi Paul Sorry to hear the news but work has to take priority. I had a similar situation when we moved house and it has taken me 15 years to be able to build another one . Mine is 10ft X 8ft so I happy to share the issues I came up against . And there are some great smaller layouts such as Peter Dixon’s Torridon Road who uses great camera work and lots of detailing to give the impression it’s much bigger. Cheers Kev
Hi Paul, An ending means a new beginning - so we, your loyal watchers and subscribers, will await your eventual return. “Closure” of Sandling Junction is almost like the closure announcement on the real thing - to be greeted with shock, disbelief, sadness and perhaps an element of anger? I have been a subscriber to your model railway channel for a good while now and have enjoyed watching the layout progress, but have thought it was a tad over-ambitious at times, so maybe aim for a smaller (and more easily achievable) layout next for Sandling Mk2? We all like a tail-chaser sort of track plan, but there is a lot of enjoyment to be had from operating a terminus to fiddle yard set-up, so perhaps consider that for the new layout? It would be good to “keep your hand in” with maybe doing some more weathering tutorials - on coaches and rolling stock this time, rather than locomotives? I wish you the best of luck with your fine art training and hope your plans come to fruition - it is an amazing skill you have! Perhaps do some paintings of Southern Railway / BR locos and scenes? I’d love to see something like that from you. Perhaps others would too? It would be an interesting crossover between hobbies. Anyway, I shall shut up now. Best wishes from up here on Wirral. See you soon - hopefully!
See if you can find some of the old Peco publications on layouts and one by Cyril Freezer. Loads of ideas there for small rooms. Also checkout Station Road, Julian has managed to create a fascinating layout in a small space.
Hello Paul. Have you ever considered N gauge? The latest wagons and coaches are almost as detailed as oo gauge and new and existing makers of N gauge locos are producing new models much more often than they used too. Thanks for to he past videos and I look forward to when you "start again".
Hi there, very sad to hear you’re taking the layout apart, but hey fully understandable. Please can you film it taking it apart, plus filming of the new layout. Just an idea, why don’t you create a 9’ x 18’ layout where you are at the moment and lower it down on a pulley system. It goes up to the ceiling when you’re doing your art stuff, then when you need to lower it down and Insert some legs underneath. It’s always very sad when you take apart the layout, but at least you’re not saying goodbye to it. Take care buddy and thank you for all your videos. Cheerio. 🚂👍
Sad video Paul 🥲 I’ve just moved house and dismantled my model railway and not had the imputes to start it again 🙁 So it’s all boxed up in my new garage 😟 Hopefully like you I’ll get it up running in the future 😃
Paul, have you considered selling all your OO gauge items and use the proceeds to build your layout in n gauge.smaller room smaller layout. If not have you watched Mouldy Raspberry OOgauge layouts. Small amount of tracks big on scenery, which I believe would be up your street as an artist.
sad to hear about your dilemma paul , many people have suggested the door opening outwards which is good , maybe hire the boards in the new room so getting in and out not so difficult meaning no lift out section, 8 x 10 still a usable area ,keep the sandling / hythe theme as i live quite close to you , just a simple roundie roundie but highly detailed layout with station and turntable and show us your true talent being an artist how to model to a very high standard which i know you are very capable of, ive just dismantled my layout as im moving but will take the positives from what ive learned into my new layout and avoided the many mistakes...................tony ps i did meet you a few years ago at the Folkestone model railway show
Paul Gutted. But tough Decision. It's something that has obviously taken a hard decision. Your business needs the space. If it could be boxed in and enclose the layout maybe an option. As you have worked hard enough on the layout and passionately helped other modellers especially during covid19 to give them including me a good place to help mentally. Good luck with your endeavours and keep your channel going if possible to let us know what you are upto. take care Alan.
I will miss your videos and hope that you will come back with the design and construction of the new one when you are able to. Personally I have no interest in the teardown of the old layout. You have obviously got a lot of rolling stock a turntable and a superb engine shed so how about a layout based on a locomotive depot Best wishes for all your future projects. Richard.
Business before pleasure is understandable, but so sorry to see your layout will have to be dismantled, especially as my interest is in a similar (BR/SR) area and period as your layout.
Check out 'railways unlimited' - th-cam.com/users/ModelRailwaysUnlimited he achieves a lot in a small space. And Oscar Paisley's older layout was small but very nice - excellent for filming. - th-cam.com/video/zeSa7myC5sI/w-d-xo.html And this is O gauge in a tiny room - th-cam.com/video/MGBRGtABJ5A/w-d-xo.html This layout might be more to your taste: th-cam.com/channels/vRUIR14eRQsoaxCCfco2vw.html Oddly, I also need the bigger room my 0 gauge layout is in, and intend to move it to a smaller room. Helps that it is more of an old fashioned toy railway, but the smaller space could well be nicer. Easier to light, more chock full of colour etc. Sometimes less really is more! Change is often good.
There must be a solution to this. Speaking for myself, the best way for me to start resenting my business would be for it to stomp all over my beloved hobby. Especially that close to retirement. It is art within itself. Surely it can be incorporated rather than superseded? So sad.
Hi Paul i totally understand your dilemma, Right 8 x 10 here's my idea for you to give your hours of playability, ENGINE SHED & YARD, fictional historical the choice is yours you will still have to compromise unless you switch to N but as you have lots of OO gauge stock stick with that, The only part of your collection that will probably be redundant would be passenger carriages which could be sold of to fund the project. Just think of the fun in researching a real location, or let your imagination run riot, the weathering of all the Trucks Engines Vans yes there should be enough room for a small shunting yard, no need to worry about inclines as predominantly 99% of Engine sheds & yards are flat no reason not to incorporate an old fashioned coaling incline as well as the coaling towers ash towers installed in the 1950's as part of the modernisation plan there really is a mind blowing array of ready made shed & yard parts available. Your ADM turntable will be perfect for a shed layout. There are Lots of shed & yard oo gauge layouts on TH-cam to give you ideas & inspiration, The playability is really immense not to mention the opportunity of lots & lots of weathering. JUST AN IDEA Paul, Have fun & good luck with this opportunity to reevaluate your space for the next few years & long into retirement..... Andy
So it had to be - either you were closing the Junction down or you'd finished it! You made a decision which you have hinted at for some time. It did seem, with the abandonment of the harbour layout that this news was coming. I wish you well with the projects, both building the studio and new layout. I'd vote for rebuilding Folkstone in the new room, but I'm sure that won't be on the cards. It would be interesting though and get round the door problem. But as you are going to make it into a proper studio/teaching space you really need to do the job properly and insulate and install modern aircon cool/hot. Students, particularly the well heeled sort who pay the bills, are a fussy lot nowadays and need to be well coddled! It will cost, but pay dividends for many years to come, not least for your own comfort, and when eventually you come to sell it all on. All the very best of luck with it all.
These are the tough choices we face in life. Such a shame. Personally, I would video the take-down. Lots of us are forced to relocate our railways and it may throw up some great footage, help and information. As for the new railway room, yesh, smaller but that does not have to mean less interesting. I would suggest an end to end layout in the pace you have there. That may mean less videos, less action, but it does allow you to keep your hobby as or when time permits. Hobbies (And that is all they are) do matter and are important to our well being. Good luck. I will stick with the channel and would like to think that most of us would. Stay safe
You could move the door to open outwards rather than into the room or remove it or have a sliding door depending on space outside the room... sad to see it change but a new layout build is always fun too ..whatever you do im sure we will all support and follow your progress.. you could do a farewell video showing the whole layout before it disappears ..
thank you that's kind, the door idea might work, cheers P
Good luck Paul. I do love your videos and the way you create and present them. I will continue to watch and learn. I would enjoy seeing what do during tear down and rebuild. Cheers - Larry.
Hi Larry, may not film much but photo and refer to it in a future review and maybe a best of sandling highlights lowlights lol, cheers P
Hi Paul, Eddie from Herne Bay we have met briefly at one of the shows, really sorry to hear of your predicament as such, have been watching your channel with great interest over last few years and found it very informative and picked up lots of information & tips from your layout, shame it cannot be relocated especially after all the hard work involved getting it to this stage, hopefully will come back to it at some stage, what a decision to make, really must be gut wrenching, but good luck with your artwork and supporting channel. Eddie🤓
Thanks, Eddie, yes gut-wrenching indeed, but onwards to a new layout, if I perfect the plan xheers P
that's really a nice layout with lots of equipment. Sad to tear apart. But there also is an upside. The creation of a layout is very exiting and you now are able to make something completely different. I myself had a layout in ho scale in a spare bedroom. I was so fed up with those short trains, so i sold my trains and built a new layout, with the same theme, but now in n scale. Maybe that could give you the possibility to run the same long trains you do today although in a smaller space. The best stock could of course be spared for the future. Anyway good luck with the new Railway ! Thanks for the video !
That thought had crossed my mind, but too clumsy to handle chip n scale, so will stick to oo cheers P
Hi Paul sorry to hear this news, I know how it feels to have to takedown/move a layout. Do you have space in your garden for a log cabin type structure that could be a studio or new train room? If not the door on the new room could be changed to open out. Could your loft be converted? I hope you get it up and running sooner rather than later, we all need our hobbies as a distraction sometimes.
I wish, my wife would leave me first lol, no loft. so 8 x 10 is it lol. cheers P
@@Sandlingjunction lol nothing else for then Paul you will have to move to a bigger house. 😜🤣
Hi Paul, have enjoyed watching the progress of Sandling and especially learning from both your skills and the mistakes along the way. Hopefully if you do end up based out of a new studio there it gives you more time back on the trains in their new room. Will look forward to your future videos on weathering etc. I’m sure someone will get in touch who can assist with a professional design for your new room. My skills on anyrail are not up to that level! Wish you all the best as you make the changes, take care of yourself.
Hi Michael thanks you that is kind, and yes I hope it will happen sooner rather than later, cheers P
I feel for you Paul, I know what a hard, gut wrenching decision that was for you to have to make. You will in the future have the excitement of starting over again, I remember your excitement of starting No Name Junction..hold onto that thought! Hard as it was for you, with all things considered I feel you've made the right decision. You've always got my support x
Thank you as always Wendy, so much appreciated , cheers P
"This is not the end. Merely an interruption. I'll be back." I like that. Yes; I would love to see the transformation into a working studio/gallery, and, of course, any modelling updates on what's going on at the workbench. As a full-time professional fine artist, I can relate. They say that what a model railroading hobby needs is time, space, and money, and rarely does one have all three. I share a studio with my wife, who is also an artist, but thankfully have the space for a decent sized railroad, on which I began construction two years ago. As for time--that's a whole other thing! The painting earns the money, so that is always first. Sometimes, like right now, things are really busy, and we find ourselves putting in six or seven day weeks in the studio. Times like this are frustrating as little progress is made on the railroad. However, with the colder months approaching, and outdoor work coming to a close for the year, hopefully these hours can be converted to train time. So, back to you--I'm sure that you've made the correct decision (for now) and that the new studio/gallery space will be wonderful. And hopefully, you'll find some time to spend at the workbench and in the design of even a small diorama that you can run, switch, and scenic. I wish you the very best, and I will continue to follow and look for new videos. Happy Painting, and Happy Modelling! Bradley Hendershot in Pennsylvania.
Too bad you're leaving Paul! Good luck with your art career! Many, many thanks for all those lovely videos you shared!! Cheers Onno.
It was all interesting and an inspiration to us all. Good luck with your Artwork. Thanks for a lot of great great videos...
Thanks Ian, but I'm not done yet, Ill keep posting, cheers P
I'm going to be really interested in the new layout plan. You're in a situation that I faced about eighteen months ago except your layout is much further along than mine was. I am desperately trying to come up with a plan for that size. It is heartbreaking for sure but the next layout of mine will be an improvement because of what I've learned so far. An opportunity for a whole new bunch of mistakes! Chin up Paul, good decisions can be hard but make life easier in the end. I'll be watching for sure!!!
Many thanks for the support and agree with you totally, cheers P
I can understand your predicament completely, ones shed is never big enough as is my case ,your work is the important thing for you at the moment, once you are retired, just rethink your life once again, great channel, many thanks from down under in Wairoa New Zealand
Less is more Paul. Take it as an opportunity. All the best !! I’m definitely interested in following your future progress and wish you well.
Sorry to see you go Paul, your videos have been inspiring and your weathering exceptional. Look forward to anything at all railway you can video/post in the future.
Hi Ron, I will still post stuff fear not, thanks for the kind words, cheers P
Hi Paul, I feel both your pain and excitement! I lost the space earmarked for my layout and have ended up in a small shed . While packing up I came across a long forgotten box of Dublo 3 rail. Fits my space perfectly. Am really enjoying getting back to basics (and hammering Ebay 😆).
The space you have sounds perfect of a double track country branch or secondary main line. Can't wait to see what you come up with!
Smaller layouts are better anyway, more chance of finishing it. 😉
That is what I keep telling myself as i take up every bit of track lol, cheers P
so sorry to hear was a lovely layout enjoyed the videos and maybe a garden layout maybe a better idea but again 10ft-8ft still good size best of luck
Good luck Paul I just made similar decision due to having to move due to health reasons
You have loads of locos that need weathering that 33 for one lol good luck mate
A tough decision to make Paul but in situations like this, I always look for the positives. There must be a bit of excitement with the prospect of starting a new smaller layout that in turn, might be a little less momentous to work on and potentially complete. I'd be happy to help with track plan ideas in the new room/space. Even if you're not ready to start on a new layout, having some track plan ideas to mull over in the interim can help keep that railway modelling spirit alive. That aside, I've always throughly enjoyed watching your channel and look forward to your future endeavours. Take care, Julian
Cheers Julian and your kind offer are warmly accepted, your opening line was spot on chum... I have a new layout to plan, cheers P
I was a bit worried when this video started thinking you were going to announce final closure ! But then was glad to hear you are not giving up the hobby. A hard decision, but you will probably find there are advantages to building a smaller layout. E.g. you are more likely to get it pretty well finished! The room I use for my vintage (Hornby Dublo) layout is about the same size or smaller than the room in your house.
I’ll keep watching out for future new videos. Thanks for all I have learned from you.
Cheers Barry, I so hope I find out that is the truth lol, cheers P
Oh no! I only subscribed today. Really sorry to hear you are dismantling the railway. I’m sure you will find a way to continue in one form or another and gain satisfaction from the hobby. Best of luck.👍
Hi Paul, so sorry to hear the news, that must have been such a hard decision to reach,
I have enjoyed the journey.
A pause can often be a crucible for new ideas (it was for me), so take your time and something satisfying will emerge.
Oh crikey Paul, real life getting in the way! Sorry you had to make that decision but needs must and at least you’re going to build another one if a bit smaller. I wasn’t allowed to have a model railway in the house, so bought a log cabin for the garden. It’s a great space 20’ x 10’, might be worth considering.
As for another layout in the space available might be worth keeping it fairly simple, maybe a double track oval with hidden storage yards at the back and a nice junction station and town scene. With your artistic talents it will look great I’m sure.
As for video’s of the pull down, why not just do an overview showing how it turns out. I look forward to what you do in the future Paul, cheers for now, John
So sorry Paul to hear you are dismantling Sandling Junction. I have followed this layout from the beginning, and now it’s very sad to see it go. But I understand your decision, as your life and work are the priority. Enjoyed watching the last run about on Sandling, now I look forward to seeing what ever plans you have for your new layout. Take care, and stay safe 👌🏻
Thank you Paul very kind words, ill still be active, and in time on a new plan, cheers P
Hi Paul - I am totally gutted that the layout is going but I fully understand why. Like you say you do not really have a choice.
At least you are going to build another layout, somewhat smaller and that I will definitely want to watch. For a moment I thought the channel was going so you will not lose me.
Personally I do not want to watch it being dismantled but that is just me as I found the end of your update very sad.
I hope you are going to keep all your trains and carriages and just box them up for when in the distant future you might return to this wonderful layout room. We can live in hope.
I dont always like watching running sessions but yours I do, dont know why but I just love watching your running sessions.
So now we wait for the smaller room conversion, cannot wait.
All the best for painting side though.
Regards Chris
Totally get that, and thanks for the kind support, I will still carry on with content that I hope will interest others, cheers P
Hi Paul, I faced the need to create a new layout following a house move in Feb 2021. Here are some random jottings that may prove useful.
Your time frame of 18 months till trains run again matches my experience, if the new double track (upper deck) mainline is completed next week!
The current train room (aka integral garage) is 2m shorter than previously. It is 3m long x 2.7 wide. Accordingly and as suggested by my wife I have created a two level layout to provide the facility for ‘out and back’ operation, plus an engine shed, terminus, 4 road hidden storage facility and a branch line design, terminating at mid level.
Packing up was easier than I had Imagined as I’d not fully unpacked from the previous move 6 years previously! A tip I spotted was to wrap my models in acid free tissue to protect the paint finishes.
Salvage as much wood as you can as the price has rocketed, along with everything else!
My doorway access utilises my sliding tray design (x 2) we discussed previously and a sliding door to the house utility room was created as I’m at an age where crawling under baseboards is no longer feasible.
‘Anyrail’ was my preferred software for track planning and has proved invaluable. If you would like a copy of my design please let me know.
To link the levels I’ve creased a double track R3/R4 helix inspired by Charlie at ‘Chadwick’ and was significantly supported in it’s creation by tech support from Ed and James at DCC Train Automation.
These random notes are to comfort you in the loss of the initial ‘Sandling’ and to help you retain your creative model railway mojo, going forward.
Good Luck and Happy Modelling,
Best Regards,
T🚂
Looking forward to your future endeavors. Cheers Greg🚝
Sorry to hear this Paul, the layout was coming along so nicely lately. Keep up your spirits! Joachim
Best of luck with the railway in the future. Put a folding door on the room that's what I have done.
Sad to hear your breaking it up, as someone else wrote worth looking at Peter Dixon's channel for inspiration on a small layout. He packs a hell of a lot of interest into a small 7ft x 6ft layout, he's videos are always interesting.
Thanks, Roy will check him out. cheers P
I don't know if I am more shocked or more sad. I have spent the last 6 years trying to build my layout and I really hope it will start next month. I have boxes and boxes of buildings and some dioramas. I am at this very moment painting some trestles for the workshops. I wish you all the best for the future and if there is anything LNER related that you would part with please let me know. I have followed your build for a long time and it has given me some ideas. How about a video of the cock-ups. That's if you ever get the time. Martin. (Thailand)
Hi Martin, only Sandling is going, I'm staying and will keep posting cheers P
Hi Paul
I have enjoyed your videos, I will be looking forward to future videos as you could look at Sandling Junction hitting the pause button for the moment.
Your into was said with a tear in your eye and I said to myself, the Railway is to end. I hope you are able to keep this Idea of a layout, albeit much smaller. perhaps Hythe the terminus. Sandling junction revised is my idea
Your hobby is just that, a hobby. Your main arts come first especially if income is involved.
I love All the videos I wish I had your drive.
I hope to see what comes up in future,
ALL the very Best JT
So sorry Paul. I do hope that we meet up at some model railway show, sometime in the future.
Regards Charlie
So sorry you have to make such a difficult decision. Only you know what is best. Best of luck for your future endeavours.
I would watch the take-down - you can do a hi-speed. In a smaller room, an end-to-end with a fiddle yard (sliding cassette) at both ends could work? With a super detailed bit in the middle?
All sounds good Kim, may use the tear down in bits, cheers P
Sad to hear Paul, if it based on space consider changing to N gauge but if it is about the time they take you need the Tardis! All the best Paul, I'm sure you will be back soon.
Hi Paul, I was in the situation you face a few years ago. In the end I built a new 5 x 3m cabin in my garden and put a much smaller layout in half of that. Hope you work out a plan for your retirement. My layout space is in a L shape 8ft 7" and 6ft 6" tight but interesting.
I do hope so, and sure it will all be for the best
cheers P
Dear Paul, although I do understand your mesmerizing on your layout combined with the necessary space for your art studio, the two indeed seem at first glance to be conflicting in terms of space and maybe attention, I humbly think it’s sad to see your layout go. Foremost, because the presence of a layout (let’s say a smaller one) in an art studio could and should be another source of inspiration. Modeling in general, and model railroading are forms of art, although underestimated and undervalued. Especially where art is about the creative aspect and the creation of our very own worlds, there absolutely is a connection. No need to persuade you, however, with these words I certainly hope you will revisit your decision. Also think it’s good to say that with this very layout, you’ve learned a lot. Obviously about modeling and model railroading, but also (I humbly add) about yourself. A smaller rendition of a layout may just do the trick.
Anyhow, thanks for all the episodes. Didn’t look for your art, or artistic tutorials yet. Please share a link. I will check it out.
Thank you for all of that Vincent very kind thoughts.If you google my name Paul Apps or Paul Apps Artist, I will show up all over the place. I have two main art channels, watercolour, and oils. I also have a Patreon channel, patreon.com/paulappsartist hope you like what you see, cheers P
@@Sandlingjunction thanks Paul!
Dear Paul Please remember you have great friends in the Hobby and always will do. Yes Model Railway's have helped me through some sad times . I'm Retiring next week and because of health problems I'm going to live in a Residential home. So I have been reducing my scale from O Gauge to OO and in the loo at year To N Gauge. Never thought I would but it's the only way to have a working model Railway layout in my Studio Room with en suite that will be my living space . I count my blessings and embrace my new chapter in life . My OO gauge I have given to a friend and his young children are loving it and taking it forward.the O Gauge has all been sold upsetting but had to be done . Strangely I used to have N gauge for 35 years about 20 years . So I wish you well I had tears but the decision was brought on with failing health so it had to be done. My N Gauge Model Railway layout is now six feet by one foot plus three foot foot fiddle yard so I'm very lucky . Runs on top of a bookcase cupboard etc . It's in a light box so a feature. Best wishes Richard Crompton.
Sad to hear sandling going on the back burner but exciting plans for your future hope everything goes to plan 🤞all the very best see you soon thankyou for all your videos
Hi Paul, sorry to hear the end of Sandling Junction, at least as we know it. Looking forward to your new Layout!
Hi Paul. So sorry to see you take up your layout. I am sure you have thought this out. There is nothing wrong with downsizing. In fact sometimes it can be more beneficial. Keep the videos coming. I really enjoy them. Paul
that's a given Paul, cheers P
Thanks Paul. When I saw the title of the video pop up, I guessed that this was going to be the end of the layout. But at least you're doing it for rational reasons, and it's not being forced on you for health reasons or whatever. As you say, this sort of thing is forced on most of us at some point.
Personally I would suggest that you film, or at least photograph, the removal of the layout. Just so you have the record. If you don't have the record, you'll wish you had. You might never put it up here, but at least you'll have it. If you do go ahead with Sandling Mark II, then a few minutes timelapse of the removal of Sandling I could be your intro to Sandling II.
Whatever you do, don't throw the wood away! Have you seen the price of wood now?!?!?
The potential new room is certainly a bit smaller, and may prove a challenge, particularly as my impression is that you like watching trains go by, rather than fiddly shunting etc. You mentioned your turntable - I can't remember having seen you ever you use it! Maybe you could move down a scale so you could get longer runs in the smaller room. If you want people to help with ideas, you probably need to post a plan and/or photos of the room when you're ready to restart modelling.
Good luck!
That's all good stuff Andrew and many worthy points, thanks Paul
Hi Paul
Sorry to hear the news but work has to take priority. I had a similar situation when we moved house and it has taken me 15 years to be able to build another one . Mine is 10ft X 8ft so I happy to share the issues I came up against . And there are some great smaller layouts such as Peter Dixon’s Torridon Road who uses great camera work and lots of detailing to give the impression it’s much bigger.
Cheers Kev
Good luck mate, business first - hobbies later! Business = money. Need money for hobbies😁
hi i used to run oo gauge now i run n gauge , i wondered if that could be an option, if not good luck with your new endevers .
Maybe a scenic 10 foot section with tunnels at each end into storage cassette system enjoyed your videos hope everything goes well
You could just do a barn door. It slides left or right on wheels and a track outside of the room.
Hi Paul,
An ending means a new beginning - so we, your loyal watchers and subscribers, will await your eventual return.
“Closure” of Sandling Junction is almost like the closure announcement on the real thing - to be greeted with shock, disbelief, sadness and perhaps an element of anger?
I have been a subscriber to your model railway channel for a good while now and have enjoyed watching the layout progress, but have thought it was a tad over-ambitious at times, so maybe aim for a smaller (and more easily achievable) layout next for Sandling Mk2?
We all like a tail-chaser sort of track plan, but there is a lot of enjoyment to be had from operating a terminus to fiddle yard set-up, so perhaps consider that for the new layout?
It would be good to “keep your hand in” with maybe doing some more weathering tutorials - on coaches and rolling stock this time, rather than locomotives?
I wish you the best of luck with your fine art training and hope your plans come to fruition - it is an amazing skill you have!
Perhaps do some paintings of Southern Railway / BR locos and scenes? I’d love to see something like that from you. Perhaps others would too? It would be an interesting crossover between hobbies.
Anyway, I shall shut up now.
Best wishes from up here on Wirral.
See you soon - hopefully!
See if you can find some of the old Peco publications on layouts and one by Cyril Freezer. Loads of ideas there for small rooms. Also checkout Station Road, Julian has managed to create a fascinating layout in a small space.
Hello Paul.
Have you ever considered N gauge? The latest wagons and coaches are almost as detailed as oo gauge and new and existing makers of N gauge locos are producing new models much more often than they used too.
Thanks for to he past videos and I look forward to when you "start again".
Hi there, very sad to hear you’re taking the layout apart, but hey fully understandable. Please can you film it taking it apart, plus filming of the new layout. Just an idea, why don’t you create a 9’ x 18’ layout where you are at the moment and lower it down on a pulley system. It goes up to the ceiling when you’re doing your art stuff, then when you need to lower it down and Insert some legs underneath. It’s always very sad when you take apart the layout, but at least you’re not saying goodbye to it.
Take care buddy and thank you for all your videos. Cheerio. 🚂👍
Sad video Paul 🥲 I’ve just moved house and dismantled my model railway and not had the imputes to start it again 🙁 So it’s all boxed up in my new garage 😟 Hopefully like you I’ll get it up running in the future 😃
Paul, have you considered selling all your OO gauge items and use the proceeds to build your layout in n gauge.smaller room smaller layout. If not have you watched Mouldy Raspberry OOgauge layouts. Small amount of tracks big on scenery, which I believe would be up your street as an artist.
Hi Paul sorry to see Sandling Junction go, I will miss your video's don't stay away too long take care and best wishes for your future..
sad to hear about your dilemma paul , many people have suggested the door opening outwards which is good , maybe hire the boards in the new room so getting in and out not so difficult meaning no lift out section, 8 x 10 still a usable area ,keep the sandling / hythe theme as i live quite close to you , just a simple roundie roundie but highly detailed layout with station and turntable and show us your true talent being an artist how to model to a very high standard which i know you are very capable of, ive just dismantled my layout as im moving but will take the positives from what ive learned into my new layout and avoided the many mistakes...................tony ps i did meet you a few years ago at the Folkestone model railway show
Build a studio log cabin out the back for your art work. you will regret this decision when you retire.
As you like watching the trains run by stick with a continuous loop rather than end to end in the new location.
Paul Gutted. But tough Decision. It's something that has obviously taken a hard decision. Your business needs the space. If it could be boxed in and enclose the layout maybe an option. As you have worked hard enough on the layout and passionately helped other modellers especially during covid19 to give them including me a good place to help mentally. Good luck with your endeavours and keep your channel going if possible to let us know what you are upto. take care Alan.
I will miss your videos and hope that you will come back with the design and construction of the new one when you are able to.
Personally I have no interest in the teardown of the old layout.
You have obviously got a lot of rolling stock a turntable and a superb engine shed so how about a layout based on a locomotive depot
Best wishes for all your future projects.
Richard.
Cheers Richard yes I agree on no tear-down vids, but a new layout is to be planned for , cheers P
Business before pleasure is understandable, but so sorry to see your layout will have to be dismantled, especially as my interest is in a similar (BR/SR) area and period as your layout.
Check out 'railways unlimited' - th-cam.com/users/ModelRailwaysUnlimited
he achieves a lot in a small space. And Oscar Paisley's older layout was small but very nice - excellent for filming. - th-cam.com/video/zeSa7myC5sI/w-d-xo.html
And this is O gauge in a tiny room - th-cam.com/video/MGBRGtABJ5A/w-d-xo.html
This layout might be more to your taste: th-cam.com/channels/vRUIR14eRQsoaxCCfco2vw.html
Oddly, I also need the bigger room my 0 gauge layout is in, and intend to move it to a smaller room. Helps that it is more of an old fashioned toy railway, but the smaller space could well be nicer. Easier to light, more chock full of colour etc. Sometimes less really is more!
Change is often good.
sorry you had to make this decision. have you considered a multi deck layout?
There must be a solution to this. Speaking for myself, the best way for me to start resenting my business would be for it to stomp all over my beloved hobby. Especially that close to retirement. It is art within itself. Surely it can be incorporated rather than superseded? So sad.
Darrenbury Central Hi i like the tunnel and turn t area.
Sorry to hear the news about Sandling Junction
Hi Paul i totally understand your dilemma, Right 8 x 10 here's my idea for you to give your hours of playability, ENGINE SHED & YARD, fictional historical the choice is yours you will still have to compromise unless you switch to N but as you have lots of OO gauge stock stick with that, The only part of your collection that will probably be redundant would be passenger carriages which could be sold of to fund the project.
Just think of the fun in researching a real location, or let your imagination run riot, the weathering of all the Trucks Engines Vans yes there should be enough room for a small shunting yard, no need to worry about inclines as predominantly 99% of Engine sheds & yards are flat no reason not to incorporate an old fashioned coaling incline as well as the coaling towers ash towers installed in the 1950's as part of the modernisation plan there really is a mind blowing array of ready made shed & yard parts available. Your ADM turntable will be perfect for a shed layout.
There are Lots of shed & yard oo gauge layouts on TH-cam to give you ideas & inspiration, The playability is really immense not to mention the opportunity of lots & lots of weathering. JUST AN IDEA Paul, Have fun & good luck with this opportunity to reevaluate your space for the next few years & long into retirement..... Andy
So it had to be - either you were closing the Junction down or you'd finished it!
You made a decision which you have hinted at for some time. It did seem, with the abandonment of the harbour layout that this news was coming.
I wish you well with the projects, both building the studio and new layout.
I'd vote for rebuilding Folkstone in the new room, but I'm sure that won't be on the cards. It would be interesting though and get round the door problem.
But as you are going to make it into a proper studio/teaching space you really need to do the job properly and insulate and install modern aircon cool/hot. Students, particularly the well heeled sort who pay the bills, are a fussy lot nowadays and need to be well coddled! It will cost, but pay dividends for many years to come, not least for your own comfort, and when eventually you come to sell it all on.
All the very best of luck with it all.
Paul. So sad . I will miss your videos. Pete
These are the tough choices we face in life. Such a shame. Personally, I would video the take-down. Lots of us are forced to relocate our railways and it may throw up some great footage, help and information. As for the new railway room, yesh, smaller but that does not have to mean less interesting. I would suggest an end to end layout in the pace you have there. That may mean less videos, less action, but it does allow you to keep your hobby as or when time permits. Hobbies (And that is all they are) do matter and are important to our well being. Good luck. I will stick with the channel and would like to think that most of us would. Stay safe
How about an art lesson channel or just painting period.
Not surprising!
Could you not buy a shed