Station Loop - which track pieces to use

[Timb0]

I'm putting together a station-loop (like the one shown in the picture i've attached) whereby the platform sits between two tracks which have both diverged from one LH/RH point and will both rejoin after the platform.

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What sort of gap should be left between the track and the platform to maintain realism? To keep the platform as close to the carriages as possible I've found that the straight-track section in the branch-line needs to extend beyond the platform about one-half a single-track length before the curve in order to avoid carriages rubbing the platform as they traverse the curve heading back to the points (I've done some testing). If I follow the Hornby example the platform-edge is nowhere near the carriages and also the main-line track requires non-standard length to be cut in order to reach the points at each end as the standard pieces don't match the gap.

Has anybody successfully build a loop like this with realistic looking gaps between platform and carriages but also minimising the amount of track which requires cutting? 

Why hasn't Hornby thought of this already and offered some pre-cut pieces which facilitate this layout which surely must be used a lot?

 

[2e0dtoeric]

The easy way is to strap a pen to the side of one of the coaches, first at one end, then in the middle, and run it round the curve, with the pen resting on a piece of paper. That will give you the centre and end overhangs. Make your platform just outside those lines, and you shouldn't have any catching problems.

I assume the picture will appear later, when it has been approved (probably Monday?)

I can't comment on the other problem, as all my track except points, is flexi, and made-to-measure.

[Fozzy Bear]

Another option might be to adjust the length of the platform to suit the tracks instead of the other way around

[walkingthedog]

It's nothing to do with a gap to maintain realism, it's a gap that allows locos and coaches to remain clear of the platform especially on the curves.  I'd use Flexi track, far more forgiving. 

[Slornie]

I was sure I'd seen a similar configuration addressed in one or other Hornby track plans and this is what I've found.  It may not help, but different adaptations are shown on plans 6N, 11I, and 11M on this website.  No part numbers but you can probably guess what they are.