I seem to like the idea of a semi Takt timetable, as normal
- 1tph Inverness to Tain all stations - thats simple.
Then I’d have 1 path per hour for semi fast (first part of the journey) long distance services. The rotation would be every 4 hours, running 3-4 times a day in each case. These would stop at Muir of Ord and Dingwall then the applicable services would then stop at Invergordon and Tain, then all stations. I’m in favour of the bus stop request system on platforms and trains as well being used at all stops where looping isn’t happening. Anyway, here are my services:
- 1tp4h Inverness to Kyle
- 1tp4h Inverness to Wick
- 1tp4h Inverness to Dingwall (infill - could be for any absurd new long distance route up there)
- 1tp4h Inverness to Hemsdale
If 1tp2h isn’t needed as far as Hemsdale, I’d cut the Dingwall and Helmsdale slows so the semi fast long distance path is 1tp2h out of INV, 1tp4h for Wick and 1tp4h for Kyle.
Inverness to Tain could be electrified. 4 car EMUs on this route. As discussed on a different thread in speculative ideas, I’d have a hydrogen/electric bimode loco with good, smooth (as possible), comfy stock and large windows (sloping sides with windows up slopes like Swiss?). Cycle/Luggage space would be there as well.
A clock face timetable may mean less loops are needed, especially on low frequency sections.