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The UK government has unveiled the logo and livery for GBR, constituting a key step in its policy to bring the railways back into state hands.

A Patriotic Design and Iconic Logo

The updated branding showcases a red, white and blue design to echo the national flag and will be rolled out on rolling stock, at terminals, and across its digital platforms.

Significantly, the emblem is the distinctive double-arrow logo historically used by National Rail and previously introduced in the 1960s for the former state operator.

The Rollout Plan

The phased introduction of the new look, which was designed by the department, is scheduled to happen in phases.

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

Throughout December, the branding will be displayed at major stations, including Manchester Piccadilly.

The Journey to Renationalisation

The legislation, which will pave the way the formation of Great British Railways, is currently progressing through the legislative process.

The administration has said it is bringing back into public ownership the railways so the service is "run by the passengers, working for the public, not for profit."

GBR will consolidate the operation of passenger trains and infrastructure under one umbrella body.

The department has claimed it will combine seventeen separate entities and "cut through the frustrating red tape and lack of accountability that continues to plague the railways."

App-Based Features and Existing Ownership

The rollout of Great British Railways will also involve a comprehensive app, which will let users to see schedules and book journeys free from surcharges.

Accessibility users will also be able to use the application to arrange assistance.

A number of operators had earlier been nationalised under the outgoing government, including Southeastern.

There are currently seven operating companies now in state ownership, covering about a third of journeys.

In the past year, South Western Railway have been nationalised, with further franchises likely to be added in the coming years.

Official and Sector Reaction

"The new design is not simply a new logo," commented the relevant minister. It signifies "a new railway, leaving behind the issues of the past and concentrated completely on offering a proper service for the public."

Industry leaders have acknowledged the focus to bettering services.

"The industry will continue to collaborate with relevant bodies to ensure a seamless transition to the new system," one executive noted.