The term "permanent way" arose to differentiate between the rough track laid by railway contractors for the constructional purposes of new lines, and the final ballasted track upon which the regular service of trains was to run. The former being purely temporary, qualification of "permanent" was applied to the latter.

No. 320 finally drew into Paris one minute early, having run the 78.3 miles from Longueau in 65½min, inclusive of a permanent way slack and the usual tortoise-like progress from St. Denis.

The paid permanent way staff prepare and refettle the track during the week and at weekends volunteer gangs of some 30/40 people are engaged on relaying — ….

Permanent way

Meaning

Noun

Synonyms