The Fresh Branding for GBR is Unveiled.
The UK government has revealed the logo and livery for GBR, representing a major move in its policy to bring the railways under public control.
A National Design and Iconic Logo
The new design incorporates a Union Flag-inspired colour scheme to represent the Union Flag and will be rolled out on rolling stock, at railway stations, and across its digital platforms.
Interestingly, the symbol is the iconic double-arrow symbol presently used by the national rail network and previously designed in the 1960s for British Rail.
A Introduction Plan
The phased introduction of the branding, which was developed in-house, is set to occur over time.
Travellers are scheduled to start seeing the newly-branded trains throughout the network from the coming spring.
Throughout December, the visuals will be showcased at major stations, including Manchester Piccadilly.
A Path to Renationalisation
The proposed law, which will enable the establishment of Great British Railways, is presently progressing through the legislative process.
The administration has said it is bringing back into public ownership the railways so the system is "owned by the public, operating for the passengers, not for profit."
Great British Railways will bring the running of passenger trains and tracks and signals under a single organisation.
The government has said it will unify seventeen various entities and "eliminate the problematic administrative hurdles and lack of accountability that hinders the railways."
App-Based Services and Current Ownership
The launch of GBR will also include a dedicated mobile application, which will let passengers to view schedules and reserve tickets absent booking fees.
Accessibility users will also be able to use the app to request assistance.
A number of train companies had earlier been taken into public control under the former administration, including LNER.
There are currently 7 train operators now in state ownership, representing about a third of journeys.
In the past year, South Western Railway have been nationalised, with additional operators likely to be added in the coming years.
Official and Sector Reaction
"The new design is more than a cosmetic change," commented the Transport Secretary. It signifies "a new railway, casting off the frustrations of the previous system and concentrated solely on delivering a proper service for the public."
Rail figures have acknowledged the government's commitment to enhancing services.
"We will continue to collaborate with relevant bodies to support a smooth transition to GBR," a representative noted.