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The Transport Department has introduced the visual identity for the new national rail body, constituting a significant move in its policy to bring the railways into public ownership.

An National Design and Familiar Emblem

The updated design features a red, white and blue colour scheme to reflect the Union Flag and will be used on GBR trains, at railway stations, and across its website and app.

Interestingly, the symbol is the recognisable double-arrow logo currently used by National Rail and previously created in the 1960s for the former state operator.

The Introduction Plan

The introduction of the branding, which was created in-house, is expected to occur over time.

Travellers are expected to start spotting the newly-branded trains throughout the network from spring next year.

In December, the design will be exhibited at key railway stations, such as Birmingham New Street.

A Path to Public Ownership

The legislation, which will enable the formation of GBR, is currently moving through the legislative process.

The administration has said it is renationalising the railways so the service is "run by the public, working for the passengers, not for private shareholders."

GBR will unify the running of passenger trains and tracks and signals under one umbrella body.

The government has stated it will merge seventeen separate entities and "eliminate the notorious red tape and lack of accountability that has long affected the railways."

App-Based Services and Existing Ownership

The introduction of GBR will also feature a new mobile application, which will allow customers to check train times and purchase tickets absent surcharges.

Passengers with disabilities users will also be have the option to use the application to request support.

Several operators had already been taken into public control under the former government, including TPE.

There are currently seven train operators now in public control, representing about a one-third of passenger trips.

In the last twelve months, c2c have been brought into public ownership, with further franchises likely to follow in the coming years.

Ministerial and Industry Comments

"The new design is not simply a cosmetic change," commented the relevant minister. It symbolises "a fresh start, leaving behind the problems of the previous system and concentrated entirely on delivering a genuine public service."

Rail leaders have acknowledged the pledge to enhancing services.

"The industry will continue to cooperate with all stakeholders to facilitate a smooth transition to the new system," a representative noted.