The New Logo for GBR is Revealed.
The Transport Department has disclosed the branding for Great British Railways, marking a major move in its agenda to bring the railways back into state hands.
A National Palette and Familiar Symbol
The new design features a red, white and blue design to reflect the UK flag and will be applied on rolling stock, at stations, and across its online presence.
Significantly, the symbol is the distinctive double-arrow design historically used by the national rail network and originally created in the mid-20th century for the former state operator.
The Rollout Strategy
The introduction of the new look, which was designed by the department, is expected to take place in phases.
Travellers are set to start noticing the newly-branded services on the national network from spring next year.
In the month of December, the design will be exhibited at major stations, including Birmingham New Street.
The Journey to Nationalisation
The legislation, which will enable the establishment 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 network is "run by the public, operating for the passengers, not for corporate interests."
Great British Railways will consolidate the operation of passenger trains and tracks and signals under a single organisation.
The government has stated it will unify seventeen separate entities and "eliminate the frustrating administrative hurdles and accountability gap that hinders the railways."
App-Based Features and Current Public Control
The launch of GBR will also include a comprehensive app, which will enable passengers to view schedules and book tickets absent booking fees.
Passengers with disabilities travellers will also be able to use the app to arrange assistance.
Several operators had previously been nationalised under the outgoing government, including TPE.
There are now 7 operating companies now in state ownership, covering about a one-third of rail travel.
In the last twelve months, South Western Railway have been brought into public ownership, with additional operators likely to follow in the coming years.
Official and Industry Response
"This is not simply a cosmetic change," stated the Transport Secretary. It symbolises "a fresh start, leaving behind the issues of the previous system and focused completely on delivering a genuine passenger-focused service."
Rail figures have acknowledged the focus to improving services.
"We will carry on to work closely with industry partners to support a successful transition to Great British Railways," a representative noted.
