A New Logo for GBR is Unveiled.
The government has presented the logo and livery for the new national rail body, constituting a key move in its agenda to take the railways under nationalisation.
A National Design and Historic Symbol
The updated design uses a Union Flag-inspired colour scheme to echo the Union Flag and will be applied on rolling stock, at terminals, and across its online presence.
Significantly, the symbol is the distinctive twin-arrow design historically used by the national rail network and previously designed in the mid-20th century for the former state operator.
The Implementation Timeline
The introduction of the new look, which was designed internally, is expected to take place in phases.
Travellers are set to start noticing the freshly-liveried services throughout the network from the coming spring.
During the month of December, the visuals will be displayed at major stations, like Glasgow Central.
A Path to Public Ownership
The proposed law, which will allow the creation of GBR, is currently making its way through the legislative process.
The administration has argued it is bringing back into public ownership the railways so the service is "owned by the public, working for the public, not for private shareholders."
The new body will unify the operation of passenger trains and tracks and signals under a single organisation.
The government has said it will combine 17 various organisations and "reduce the notorious administrative hurdles and accountability gap that hinders the railways."
Digital Services and Existing Public Control
The rollout of Great British Railways will also involve a dedicated app, which will allow passengers to view schedules and reserve tickets free from additional fees.
Disabled passengers will also be able to use the app to arrange help.
Several franchises had previously been taken into public control under the former administration, including Southeastern.
There are now seven train operators already in public hands, covering about a one-third of passenger trips.
In the last twelve months, South Western Railway have been nationalised, with more anticipated to follow in the coming years.
Official and Sector Response
"This is more than a new logo," stated the Transport Secretary. It symbolises "a fresh start, casting off the problems of the past and dedicated completely on delivering a proper passenger-focused service."
Industry leaders have responded positively to the pledge to bettering services.
"We will continue to work closely with industry partners to support a smooth transition to GBR," a representative noted.
