ideas for storage in transom repair

[madmax]

i have a 1980 23 septre full transom with sea drive, i am having a new transom put in by fireside marine in stuart, fl. also having a armstrong bracket put on. i have a idea about installing hatches in top of transom for access to storgae for batteries, oil tank and possibly a fish box with overboard drain. the transom is approx 20 in wide.
i am also adding a 2001 225 johnson - fitch- to boat.
i have had the for 15 years and love the ride. i recently refinish all the teak and repainted the floor and deck added a anchor windless. other then the transom the rest of the boat appears in excellent shape but am haveing second thoughts about the repairs- considering purchase of a new whaler 24 center console.

any suggestions regarding the design of the transom would be appreciated- pictures of others would help.

mad max