The Fresh Logo for GBR is Announced.
The government has unveiled the branding for GBR, signifying a notable step in its strategy to take the railways into public ownership.
A Patriotic Palette and Historic Logo
The new branding features a patriotic palette to reflect the Union Flag and will be used on rolling stock, at terminals, and across its digital platforms.
Notably, the emblem is the recognisable twin-arrow logo presently used by the national rail network and previously designed in the mid-20th century for British Rail.
A Implementation Plan
The rollout of the design, which was developed in-house, is set to happen over time.
Passengers are set to begin seeing the freshly-liveried trains throughout the UK rail network from spring next year.
During December, the design will be exhibited at key stations, including London Bridge.
The Journey to Renationalisation
The legislation, which will allow the formation of Great British Railways, is currently making its way through the Parliament.
The government has stated it is renationalising the railways so the network is "owned by the people, operating for the people, not for profit."
The new body will consolidate the running of train services and infrastructure under one umbrella body.
The department has claimed it will combine 17 different entities and "reduce the notorious administrative hurdles and poor accountability that hinders the railways."
Digital Features and Existing Public Control
The introduction of GBR will also involve a dedicated app, which will let users to see schedules and book tickets free from booking fees.
Accessibility users will also be have the option to use the app to arrange support.
Several franchises had previously been taken into public control under the former government, including LNER.
There are now seven train operators now in public hands, representing about a third of passenger trips.
In the last twelve months, Greater Anglia have been nationalised, with further franchises likely to be added in the coming years.
Official and Industry Comments
"The new design is not simply a cosmetic change," said the Transport Secretary. It represents "a fresh start, leaving behind the issues of the past and dedicated entirely on offering a genuine passenger-focused service."
Industry leaders have acknowledged the pledge to bettering the passenger experience.
"We will continue to cooperate with all stakeholders to facilitate a smooth transition to GBR," one executive added.
