🔗 Share this article

The UK government has introduced the branding for the new national rail body, representing a key stride in its agenda to take the railways back into state hands.

A National Colour Scheme and Iconic Symbol

The updated livery uses a red, white and blue colour scheme to reflect the national flag and will be applied on rolling stock, at stations, and across its online presence.

Notably, the symbol is the distinctive double-arrow symbol historically used by the national rail network and previously designed in the 1960s for British Rail.

A Rollout Timeline

The introduction of the branding, which was developed by the department, is scheduled to occur gradually.

Travellers are expected to begin spotting the freshly-liveried services on the network from spring next year.

Throughout December, the branding will be showcased at key stations, like Glasgow Central.

A Journey to Nationalisation

The legislation, which will pave the way the establishment of Great British Railways, is currently making its way through the House of Commons.

The administration has said it is taking control of the railways so the service is "run by the people, delivering for the people, not for profit."

GBR will consolidate the operation of passenger trains and infrastructure under a unified structure.

The government has claimed it will merge seventeen different entities and "cut through the frustrating bureaucracy and accountability gap that continues to plague the railways."

App-Based Services and Current Ownership

The introduction of GBR will also involve a new app, which will let users to check train times and purchase journeys free from booking fees.

Accessibility users will also be able to use the application to request support.

A number of train companies had previously been nationalised under the former administration, such as LNER.

There are currently seven operating companies now in public control, representing about a third of passenger trips.

In the last twelve months, Greater Anglia have been nationalised, with additional operators anticipated to be added in the coming years.

Official and Sector Comments

"The new design isn't just a new logo," said the relevant minister. It symbolises "a new railway, leaving behind the problems of the previous system and concentrated solely on offering a reliable service for the public."

Industry representatives have responded positively to the focus to enhancing services.

"We will continue to work closely with industry partners to ensure a seamless handover to the new system," a representative added.