The Fresh Logo for the UK's National Rail Body is Shown.
The UK government has revealed the branding for the new national rail body, signifying a notable step in its strategy to take the railways into public ownership.
An National Colour Scheme and Iconic Emblem
The new branding incorporates a patriotic palette to represent the UK flag and will be used on GBR trains, at terminals, and across its digital platforms.
Notably, the emblem is the distinctive twin-arrow design presently used by National Rail and originally created in the mid-20th century for British Rail.
The Rollout Timeline
The introduction of the new look, which was created by the department, is scheduled to take place over time.
Commuters are scheduled to begin spotting the newly-branded services across the UK rail network from spring next year.
During December, the visuals will be exhibited at key stations, including London Bridge.
The Journey to Public Ownership
The legislation, which will pave the way the establishment of GBR, is currently moving through the legislative process.
The government has argued it is renationalising the railways so the network is "run by the public, delivering for the passengers, not for profit."
The new body will unify the running of passenger trains and tracks and signals under a unified structure.
The department has claimed it will combine seventeen different entities and "eliminate the frustrating red tape and poor accountability that continues to plague the railways."
App-Based Services and Current Public Control
The launch of GBR will also feature a dedicated mobile application, which will enable users to see schedules and book journeys free from booking fees.
Passengers with disabilities users will also be have the option to use the application to request support.
A number of train companies had earlier been nationalised under the outgoing administration, such as LNER.
There are now seven train operators now in state ownership, accounting for about a third of rail travel.
In the last twelve months, South Western Railway have been nationalised, with additional operators expected to follow in the coming years.
Official and Sector Reaction
"This isn't just a cosmetic change," said the Transport Secretary. It symbolises "a new railway, leaving behind the issues of the previous system and dedicated entirely on offering a genuine service for the public."
Rail representatives have responded positively to the focus to bettering the passenger experience.
"The industry will carry on to collaborate with relevant bodies to facilitate a seamless handover to the new system," a representative said.
