The permanent way is anything to do with the track, the track bed and associated infrastructure that makes up the ground and drainage that support the railway line. It is a vital part of the railway to ensure the safe passage of all who travel on the trains.
The work is varied, mostly maintenance but also including new work such as the construction of sidings, extensions, loops or even putting in new points.
On the maintenance side all the track side is inspected on a regular basis. These checks are to identify any broken chairs or fishplates, replace any keys that may have moved, checking on condition of crossings and sleepers and also signage. Points are also inspected to ensure that they are working correctly and are well greased.
There are 2 groups one works on a Sunday the other midweek and at the moment there are about 15 people in these groups and they do interchange.