Dear contributors,
between two platforms, there can be two tracks to serve both platforms, but there can also be more tracks. In the Netherlands, these so called triple station track layouts are mostly found at larger stations (4 or more platform tracks).
These third tracks serve two main uses, as described in the attached image. The tracks can be used for through trains (mostly freight), or can be used to divide platforms, or both. Platform divisions are used on Dutch stations that are reaching their capacity. Adding a crossover in the middle of a platform allows two trains using the same platform simultanuously (which doubles the stations capacity for trains up to a certain length). In the example we see a red and green train route using the same platform and a blue train route using a platform on its own (which could be because of the train length). Such track use can of course also happen at the outer platform tracks.
The question is how to tag such a third track.
In the situation without middle crossover, usage=industrial could apply. But we should keep in mind that these tracks are also used to shunt empty passenger trains (usage=yard).
In the situation with middle crossover, usage=main, usage=branch, service=crossover, service=yard and service=siding could be used.
Please share your thoughts. Thank you in advance.
Kind regards,
Jeroen
