🔗 Share this article A Updated Identity for GBR is Shown. The government has unveiled the logo and livery for the new national rail body, signifying a significant stride in its strategy to bring the railways back into state hands. An Patriotic Colour Scheme and Iconic Logo The fresh branding uses a Union Flag-inspired design to reflect the Union Flag and will be rolled out on GBR trains, at stations, and across its online presence. Interestingly, the emblem is the well-known double-arrow symbol historically used by National Rail and first created in the mid-20th century for British Rail. The iconic double-arrow emblem was formerly used by the state-owned British Rail. The Rollout Plan The rollout of the branding, which was designed in-house, is expected to take place over time. Travellers are scheduled to start seeing the newly-branded services across the network from the coming spring. In December, the design will be displayed at prominent stations, like Glasgow Central. A Path to Renationalisation The legislation, which will enable the formation of GBR, is currently progressing through the legislative process. The administration has stated it is taking control of the railways so the network is "owned by the passengers, operating for the public, not for corporate interests." Great British Railways will consolidate the running of train services and tracks and signals under one umbrella body. The government has said it will combine 17 separate entities and "eliminate the frustrating bureaucracy and poor accountability that continues to plague the railways." Digital Services and Existing Ownership The rollout of GBR will also include a new app, which will enable passengers to check schedules and book journeys without surcharges. Accessibility travellers will also be have the option to use the app to book support. A concept of how the Great British Railways application could appear. Multiple franchises had previously been taken into public control under the previous government, such as Southeastern. There are currently seven operating companies now in public control, accounting for about a third of rail travel. In the last twelve months, South Western Railway have been nationalised, with more expected to follow in the coming years. Official and Sector Comments "This isn't just a cosmetic change," stated the Transport Secretary. It signifies "a fresh start, shedding the frustrations of the past and concentrated completely on providing a reliable passenger-focused service." Industry representatives have responded positively to the pledge to bettering services. "We will carry on to cooperate with industry partners to ensure a smooth changeover to Great British Railways," a senior figure added.