Thanks Clive, I kept the title vague and was just going to update the first post with new questions rather than spamming lots of threads then when/if it happens I'd start a build log.

I don't want to be wasting money on materials and tooling because I skimped on the build so was thinking I would learn and plan what I should get to meet these specifications but keep saying I want to keep it cheap so people don't suggest premium options (unless they warrant the extra spend over a capable alternative), then when I have a plan I'll start looking at prices. If it comes out too much so be it, I'll have learned lots and will be able to consider a smaller, less future proof, build. I may win the lottery by then and not care about the price!

The linked machine looks nice but looks like a moving table on X and Y? I was planning on having the spindle move on the gantry, though I guess it's partly the same... Not seeing any text yet so will check back later.

Do I take the linking to a fixed gantry to be you saying that is the cheapest option for this size machine?