I think that the going wider idea is not only valid, but pretty damn good if you can afford the space. You will need some space though because then you could place the tank so you could have room (at least a metre) on either side of the tank to do work. I have about 2 metres of empty space behind my own tank where i can keep a salt, saltwater, and freshwater (the bulky stuff that won't fit in my cabinet). It really simplifies maintenance and I find it quite convenient. I don't need tongs because I can reach anywhere I want to without a stepstool. You'll want those shoulder length gloves though.
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