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The Transport Department has introduced the branding for GBR, signifying a major move in its policy to take the railways back into state hands.

An Patriotic Design and Iconic Logo

The updated branding features a patriotic colour scheme to echo the national flag and will be rolled out on locomotives, at terminals, and across its digital platforms.

Interestingly, the emblem is the recognisable twin-arrow symbol historically used by the national rail network and first introduced in the 1960s for British Rail.

The Introduction Timeline

The rollout of the design, which was developed by the department, is set to occur over time.

Passengers are expected to start noticing the freshly-liveried services across the network from spring next year.

In the month of December, the branding will be exhibited at key railway stations, like Leeds City.

The Journey to Renationalisation

The legislation, which will pave the way the creation of GBR, is presently progressing through the legislative process.

The administration has said it is renationalising the railways so the system is "run by the public, delivering for the people, not for private shareholders."

Great British Railways will unify the running of passenger trains and infrastructure under a single organisation.

The government has said it will merge seventeen separate entities and "reduce the notorious administrative hurdles and lack of accountability that hinders the railways."

Digital Services and Current Ownership

The launch of GBR will also feature a comprehensive app, which will enable customers to view timetables and purchase tickets free from booking fees.

Accessibility users will also be have the option to use the app to arrange support.

Multiple train companies had previously been nationalised under the outgoing administration, including LNER.

There are currently 7 operating companies already in public control, accounting for about a one-third of rail travel.

In the past year, South Western Railway have been brought into public ownership, with more likely to be added in the coming years.

Ministerial and Industry Comments

"The new design is more than a cosmetic change," said the Transport Secretary. It symbolises "a fresh start, shedding the problems of the previous system and focused entirely on offering a proper service for the public."

Industry leaders have responded positively to the focus to bettering the passenger experience.

"The industry will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure a successful changeover to GBR," one executive added.