Main Lines: 16th May 2026
Welcome to this week's Main Lines.
Great Western Railway has confirmed it will return to public ownership in December 2026 as part of the Government’s wider rail reform and Great British Railways plans. Meanwhile, HS2 reached another construction milestone with the completion of the Curzon 2 bridge structure near Birmingham, while debate continues over train lengths and capacity on the revised high-speed network. The passengers are also being warned of significant disruption later this month due to major engineering works on key routes, including the East Coast and West Coast Main Lines, as well as HS2 works near London Euston.
In London, further Underground strike action has been announced for May, likely affecting several Tube lines. Elsewhere, the new Cambridge South station has been confirmed to open in June, becoming one of the first stations associated with the future Great British Railways branding.
In model railway news, we have had some interesting announcements from the Märklin Group, including the announcement of another HO Scale British locomotive - the Class 66. This locomotive represents the class beautifully, and we are sure it will be a popular addition to the range. Alongside this, Märklin has announced a range of other items and exciting new products under their Trix, Minitrix, and LGB banners. This week has also seen the launch of a new Kato newsletter and updates on Oxford Rail and Roco products.
In This Issue:
Gaugemaster News:
British Model Railway News
European Model Railway News
Gaugemaster News
Footplate Crew Now In Stock
The first stage of the Gaugemaster figure range has finally arrived and is now available to bring extra realism and character to your model railway layout. Specially designed exclusively for the Gaugemaster range, these high-quality model railway figures are perfect for adding life to stations, platforms, streets, depots and scenic dioramas across OO gauge and other compatible layouts.
European Model Railway News
New Releases: May 2026
FLEISCHMANN have a varied selection of new releases this month, bringing together classic steam traction, iconic European electric locomotives and a wide range of freight stock for N scale modellers.
Summer Announcements 2026
The latest Summer 2026 announcements from LGB deliver a colourful mix of American narrow gauge, European main-line traction, and festival-themed fun for large-scale railway enthusiasts.
Summer Announcements 2026
The Summer 2026 announcements from Märklin deliver an impressive spread of steam, diesel and electric traction from across Europe, but for many British-outline modellers, the standout release is undoubtedly the new DB Class 66 diesel locomotive.
Summer Annoucements 2026
The latest Summer 2026 announcements from Minitrix bring together modern passenger operation, contemporary freight traction and classic diesel power for N scale enthusiasts.
Turnout Updates
Roco have announced revisions to three of their popular turnouts, introducing an updated frog design intended to improve reliability and running performance across a wider range of rolling stock.
New Releases: May 2026
Roco have a varied line-up for their May releases, with a strong selection of steam, diesel and electric locomotives spanning multiple European railway administrations and eras.
Summer Announcements 2026
The Summer 2026 new items from Trix deliver an impressive collection of modern diesel traction, classic electric locomotives and historic steam power, offering something for modellers across multiple European railway eras.
One of the standout additions is the new DB Class 66 diesel locomotive with factory-fitted DCC sound, a prototype well known to British enthusiasts thanks to its extensive operation across the UK as well as mainland Europe.
British Model Railway News
15t Cowans Sheldon Crane Updates
Oxford Rail have provided a fresh update on the highly anticipated Cowans Sheldon Crane project, following the release of the initial "First Shot" samples earlier this year.
Other News
New Items Announcements: May 2026
The latest announcements from Corgi bring together an eye-catching mix of cult television icons, beloved British animation, and classic motoring favourites, offering collectors plenty to look forward to over the coming months.
Latest News from Japan
We are pleased to introduce the first Kato Dealer Newsletter - News direct from the manufacturer. These updates come directly from KATO and feature all the latest updates and announcements from all the KATO ranges.
Check out the new items that have arrived into stock since the last Main Lines update. The list might be a bit long, but it's packed with exciting finds we think you'll love.
End of The Line
That's the end of the line for this week. We will be back next week with another packed edition of Main Lines.
Until then, Happy Modelling
Before you go...
If you are interested in modelling beyond the railways, why not check out one of our sister publications? Published monthly, check your email preferences to subscribe!
KITS & BITS
Your Monthly Model Kit Newsletter
Published First Friday of the Month
This newsletter will focus on everything plastic kit related, including news from Airfix, Tamiya, and Revell.
PIT STOP
Your Monthly Slot Car Newsletter
Published Second Sunday of the Month
This newsletter will focus on everything slot car related, including news from Scalextric, SCX and Carrera.
THE CABINET
Your Monthly Collectables Newsletter
Published Third Thursday of the Month
This newsletter will focus on everything collectables related, including Corgi, Oxford, and Herpa.