Coalbridge Street: The problematic stage left…

The right hand side of Coalbridge Street is supposed to represent the beginning of the Langton’s builders yard. It is inspired, loosely by Lavalley in Claremont…

This stage left (right as we view it) was problematic because there are no structures that hide the lack of exit from the scene, but in addition the rails just end at the back scene. Over the weekend I fitted the ‘final’ one piece back scene and cut a small slot to clear the rails - but this was more visible than I had realised, accentuating the compromise in this area (below).

I wondered but had written off finding a suitable image to use on the back scene but good friend Chris shared a few examples from Claremont I had not seen before. One of these in particular felt ‘right’ straight away - no tell tales in terms of cars or vehicles to set a time period… I tweaked it to compress the horizontal and knock down some of the contrast - a mock up (below) looked good.

It’s not perfect, the grey tarmac would be better if I’d spent the time to add a little warmth but in my excitement I added some Prit-Stik and pasted it in to place. The transformation in the long view (top) is incredible… yes, the cardboard structure will be created in plastic but squint and it feels like the little 44t is not at the end of the layout, but parked up a little further into the Langton’s yard. 

HiFi Micro or Cameo layouts are a blend of art and stage craft. Evolving the composition and considering these elements is important as is not being scared of experiments and being open to ideas and suggestions from trusted friends. Coalbridge Street is stepping towards ‘completion’ and I’m continuing to enjoy the journey. I hope you are too. Until next time, more soon…

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