The Updated Logo for GBR is Unveiled.
The administration has revealed the visual identity for GBR, marking a significant stride in its agenda to take the railways into public ownership.
A National Palette and Historic Symbol
The updated livery showcases a patriotic colour scheme to represent the UK flag and will be applied on GBR trains, at stations, and across its online presence.
Notably, the logo is the recognisable twin-arrow design historically used by National Rail and previously designed in the 1960s for British Rail.
A Introduction Plan
The introduction of the branding, which was designed by the department, is set to occur in phases.
Travellers are expected to begin spotting the freshly-liveried trains on the UK rail network from spring next year.
In December, the visuals will be displayed at key stations, like Manchester Piccadilly.
The Journey to Public Ownership
The proposed law, which will allow the creation of GBR, is currently moving through the legislative process.
The government has argued it is bringing back into public ownership the railways so the service is "owned by the passengers, delivering for the people, not for private shareholders."
Great British Railways will bring the running of passenger trains and infrastructure under one umbrella body.
The department has stated it will unify 17 separate organisations and "reduce the problematic administrative hurdles and poor accountability that hinders the railways."
Digital Features and Current Ownership
The launch of GBR will also feature a new app, which will enable passengers to check schedules and book journeys without booking fees.
Accessibility travellers will also be able to use the application to book support.
Several franchises had previously been taken into public control under the outgoing administration, including Southeastern.
There are now seven operating companies now in public hands, representing about a third of journeys.
In the last twelve months, c2c have been brought into public ownership, with further franchises likely to follow in the coming years.
Official and Industry Response
"This is not simply a cosmetic change," stated the Transport Secretary. It represents "a fresh start, shedding the issues of the past and dedicated completely on offering a reliable service for the public."
Rail representatives have responded positively to the government's commitment to bettering the passenger experience.
"We will continue to cooperate with industry partners to support a smooth changeover to GBR," a representative noted.
