Chwarel Cwm Bach 2.0

This layout (Initially called “Dinorwig – The Greatest Hits”) is still under construction… now with the aim of having it finished by June 2024.

The layout is being built in segments, it the lower section divides into the lift incline area and the ropeway/pit area. The upper section will represent a mill area, although the mill building itself will be a low-relief partial representation. All 3 incline types from the Dinorwig quarry will be represented with working models and there will also be a working ropeway. In addition, the layout features working stub points, with the pivot driven through a rocker bar as per the prototype.

The lift incline model is the one originally built by Pete Wilson for his epic quarry layout, Chwarel Cwm Bach. It has been carefully restored for use on this layout. Pete has also donated a significant proportion of the original rolling stock from Chwarel Cwm Bach for use on this layout, some a few are shown in the pictures below. Most will be used on the upper mill area once complete. With Pete’s blessing, this layout has been named “Chwarel Cwm Bach 2.0” in honour of the original.

The entire layout is partially automated using BBC Micro:Bit micro controllers.

The initial rolling stock is all 3D printed to my own designs, some of which can be found on Thingiverse. The locos pictured are borrowed from the Bryn/Chwarel Tegid fleet.

The video below shows the first segment of the layout, with the lift incline installed, There is still much to be done in terms of detail on this section, but this section is close to being finished. The other sections are still bare boards.