The PWI promotes and encourages the acquisition and exchange of technical and general knowledge about the design, construction and maintenance of every type of railed track, including trains and tramways and the related infrastructure works. It publishes a quarterly Journal and a number of other publications.

Welcome to the web site of the Permanent Way Institution (the PWI). We are a learned society whose members wish both to learn and to exchange ideas about the design, planning, and manufacture of permanent way (railway track) all over the world.  The PWI was founded by a group of permanent way inspectors in 1884, and now has about 4,000 members in the UK and Eire. We also have many members in our overseas sections, primarily in Africa, Asia and Australasia.

However, most of our members are engaged in one way or another in the upkeep of the rail systems of the UK and Eire. They work on the national networks, on light and heritage railways, for suppliers, contractors and consultants.

As our railways develop and change the one constant in them is the track on which they run; even here there are always developments, and the PWI is at the forefront of helping people keep up to date. We offer local meetings in all our Sections (usually in the evening to give the chance to socialise), technical conferences and a wide range of visits from local points of railway interest to intercontinental study visits. 

We offer numerous publications.  Our textbooks have been the industry standard works of reference for over half a century.  All our members receive our high-quality Journal, which has recently been revised.  In addition we offer books about the history of track, and that of the Institution, and supplements to the textbooks to cover modern developments.

Please browse our whole site where you will find details of all our activities across the UK and Ireland. If you are interested in knowing more please contact us, or complete a membership form.

Andy Savage B.Sc.(Eng.), M.B.A., C.Eng., F.I.C.E., M.I.O.S.H., M.C.I.L.T., F.P.W.I.

Click here to view President's  Address (Microsoft Word doc, 26 kb).