🔗 Share this article A Updated Identity for the UK's National Rail Body is Unveiled. The government has introduced the logo and livery for GBR, constituting a notable stride in its strategy to bring the railways under nationalisation. An National Design and Iconic Emblem The fresh branding features a patriotic palette to mirror the national flag and will be used on locomotives, at railway stations, and across its online presence. Notably, the symbol is the iconic twin-arrow design currently used by the national rail network and previously designed in the 1960s for the former state operator. The distinctive twin-arrow logo was originally used by the state-owned British Rail. The Implementation Plan The introduction of the branding, which was created by the department, is expected to happen over time. Travellers are expected to start noticing the freshly-liveried services throughout the UK rail network from spring next year. In December, the branding will be displayed at key railway stations, including Glasgow Central. The Journey to Renationalisation The legislation, which will pave the way the creation of Great British Railways, is presently making its way through the legislative process. The government has said it is renationalising the railways so the network is "run by the public, operating for the public, not for corporate interests." The new body will bring the running of passenger trains and tracks and signals under one umbrella body. The government has claimed it will merge seventeen different bodies and "cut through the notorious bureaucracy and lack of accountability that hinders the railways." App-Based Services and Existing Ownership The launch of Great British Railways will also feature a new mobile application, which will enable users to view train times and book journeys free from booking fees. Accessibility users will also be able to use the application to request assistance. A concept of what the GBR application could look. Multiple operators had already been nationalised under the outgoing administration, including LNER. There are currently 7 operating companies already in state ownership, accounting for about a third of passenger trips. In the last twelve months, c2c have been nationalised, with additional operators likely to follow in the coming years. Ministerial and Sector Comments "This is more than a cosmetic change," commented the Transport Secretary. It represents "a new railway, casting off the problems of the past and dedicated solely on delivering a genuine passenger-focused service." Industry leaders have acknowledged the focus to enhancing services. "The industry will continue to collaborate with industry partners to facilitate a successful transition to GBR," a senior figure noted.