The method I used to set the gradient was to first cut two supporting blocks of the required height for each end of the embankment. Lay across them a length of straight wood and measure the heights for intermediate supports.
The embankment itself is made from shaped polystyrene packaging blocks covered in two layers of plaster of Paris bandage. Stores where I found the bandage were 'The Range' (£1.50 for two rolls. Not clear whether the size stated is for one roll or two (coverage is either 0.4 sq. m or, 0.2 sq. m?). But, beware that whilst their website may show 'in stock' at your local store in my case there were none! Second stop was Hobbycraft who had a large stock of single rolls at £2.00 each (coverage: 0.3 sq. m). They call it Plaster Moulding Roll.
BTW, I determined the slope of the embankment from measuring the angle of the wing wall on a photograph of the prototype.
I decided to fit the grey girder bridge loose so it can be removed for maintenance or reuse and the brick pillars are also loose being held in place by the landscape.
The layout comprises three independent baseboards, meaning track and landscape do not span the baseboard joins, thus making it easier to separate them in the event of removal.
Drop wires are soldered to the track at each end of a baseboard and pass through the baseboard to 'chocolate' terminal blocks. Wires from these connect to bolts that hold the baseboards together and these also convey power between baseboards. At the two ends of the layout are 'D' type connectors that complete the power circuit of the oval. 'D' connectors are also hidden in the bridge pillars allowing the bridge to be disconnected easily and removed if necessary. 'D' connectors are an overkill as only two terminals are required. 'D's are what I had in stock.
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