I think the Carlisle New Yard – Chirk Kronospan timber route would be a fantastic addition to TSW5, but I’d suggest focusing it between Preston and Chester. This section captures some of the most interesting running on the route, while still being manageable in scope for players. It offers a great mix of main line running and busy traffic, with plenty of operational variety. Featuring it with Colas Rail’s Class 70s and 56s would also bring something fresh and distinctive to the game. Both locos are powerful, rugged workhorses that are strongly associated with timber flows in the North West and Wales. Players would get to experience heavy freight haulage with unique sounds, cab designs, and driving characteristics. Overall, this route would not only highlight one of the UK’s most iconic freight services, but also add real variety to the current TSW5 line-up with new traction and operations. Along this route, players will pass 2 major stations; Warrington Bank Quay & Wigan North Western. Alongside these stations players will also pass the iconic Helsby station where semaphore signals are still in use, Frodsham and Runcorn East
