Upper Corris
Scale: 4mm:1 foot, 009 gauge
Period: Early 20th Century
Location: Independent Welsh Narrow Gauge
Owner: James Goddard
Size: 2ft x 4ft.
Upper Corris is a semi- fictionalised interpretation of the Corris Railway in mid- Wales.
In its day the real Corris Railway it was one of the most profitable narrow-gauge railways in Wales. However as bus competition grew and slate mining declined, it closed in 1948.
This layout imagines the completion of a 19th century proposal to upgrade the adjoining Upper Corris horse tramway for locomotive use. The railway therefore gained access the tourist hotspots and mines in the neighbouring highlands and valleys. This stimulated demand and kept the railway thriving, as well as connecting with the nearby Talyllyn Railway at Abergynolwyn.
Utilising this fictionalised history like this keeps the modeller grounded in reality and accuracy. However it gives licence for some creative liberties to make modelling it a feasible and fun proposition. It also expands the period of realistic operation and pool of appropriate stock.
The layout was built in January 2025 as an upskilling exercise by a novice modeller, utilising YouTube tutorials and support from the Beckenham Club. Focus was put into capturing the scenic beauty of the Dulas Valley, its railway and industry by creating several separate vistas. This gets maximum scenic interest into a small layout. All 360 degrees are scenic. At exhibitions the layout is displayed short end outward to encourage the public to get a look from as many sides as possible.
It has scratch-built interpretations of prototypical structures such as the unique Corris Station roof. A passenger station with a loop, and an inglenook yard serving a small slate mine has been included for operational interest and to allow 2 train running.
The layout is DC controlled on Peco code 55 track, with working switches and semaphore signalling. 009 scale was chosen to fit a continuous run into a small London flat. Small size means it packs away when not in use, fits in one small car for transport and is quickly set up for exhibitions.
Customised prototypical stock from the Corris and Talyllyn Railways is normally utilised, however freelance stock is available. This can represent the 1870s to preservation, although the “home” period for the layout is the first half of the 20th Century. These are mostly 3D prints or kits running on reliable commercially available chassis. Passenger, slate and general merchandise trains run continually.
Upper Corris is seeking exhibition invites and is available for shows and events. It has received good reception at several exhibitions previously. Contact can be made through jamiegoddard4@rocketmail.com or through the BWWMRC. Video available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6XV3WSakyA&t=54s
