To describe horizontal design would be to say that it is the layout of track from a plan view. That is, the design ensures that the proposed railway will physically fit in with the surrounding geography.

Fig. 62 An arial photograph of some track. A horizontal design would be of the same view.

Vertical design

This kind of design can be described as looking at the profile of the land. Using the site survey for land levels, the rail is placed according to hills, valleys, etc.

Fig. 63 A screenshot of a vertical design.

As with all design, rules have to be adhered to. There are certain standards and specifications for P-Way design that can be found in the Track Designers Manual (TDM) RT/CE/S/049. It is these rules that clarify the limitations in which P-Way can be designed.