A New Branding for Great British Railways is Unveiled.
The UK government has unveiled the visual identity for the new national rail body, marking a notable move in its policy to bring the railways back into state hands.
An National Colour Scheme and Historic Logo
The fresh livery uses a patriotic design to reflect the Union Flag and will be used on rolling stock, at railway stations, and across its digital platforms.
Significantly, the symbol is the distinctive double-arrow symbol historically used by National Rail and originally created in the mid-20th century for the former state operator.
The Introduction Plan
The phased introduction of the design, which was designed in-house, is expected to occur in phases.
Commuters are set to begin noticing the newly-branded services across the network from spring next year.
Throughout the month of December, the design will be exhibited at key stations, like Manchester Piccadilly.
The Path to Nationalisation
The proposed law, which will pave the way the creation of GBR, is currently progressing through the legislative process.
The administration has said it is taking control of the railways so the system is "run by the public, delivering for the passengers, not for private shareholders."
The new body will bring the running of train services and tracks and signals under a unified structure.
The department has claimed it will merge seventeen various organisations and "cut through the frustrating administrative hurdles and poor accountability that has long affected the railways."
App-Based Features and Current Public Control
The rollout of GBR will also feature a comprehensive app, which will allow users to check timetables and purchase tickets free from surcharges.
Disabled users will also be able to use the app to arrange support.
A number of franchises had previously been nationalised under the former administration, such as LNER.
There are now 7 operating companies already in public hands, accounting for about a one-third of rail travel.
In the last twelve months, South Western Railway have been nationalised, with further franchises likely to follow in the coming years.
Ministerial and Sector Comments
"The new design isn't just a cosmetic change," commented the relevant minister. It symbolises "a new railway, shedding the issues of the previous system and focused completely on offering a reliable public service."
Rail leaders have acknowledged the government's commitment to improving the passenger experience.
"The industry will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to support a seamless handover to the new system," one executive added.
