@Danal Hahaha I read your post, very gratefully - making a lot of sense, but then did think twice when reading your last comment about the board being the least important part. Really appreciate the feedback though.
@dc42 - it's so nice to see your name again! I actually ordered your IR board for my old RRP printer. Man it made a difference! Speaking of which, I actually still have it and given that I'm building a CNC I'm not certain it would be used. If not, and if you have a use for it - or someone else does, I'm happy to donate it?? Not sure if it would be appropriate for bed levelling a PCB? Initial thought was to do it manually using a conductive probe but auto would be great... Small steps for now though.
I'm going to design the mechanics and see if I can at least interface with the board. Will keep everyone updated here as to progress.
Thanks again, so much!