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The Transport Department has disclosed the logo and livery for GBR, signifying a notable advance in its policy to bring the railways back into state hands.

An Patriotic Colour Scheme and Familiar Logo

The fresh branding uses a Union Flag-inspired colour scheme to reflect the Union Flag and will be used on rolling stock, at railway stations, and across its website and app.

Interestingly, the emblem is the recognisable twin-arrow symbol presently used by the national rail network and previously introduced in the mid-20th century for British Rail.

A Rollout Strategy

The introduction of the design, which was developed internally, is expected to occur in phases.

Passengers are expected to begin seeing the newly-branded trains across the network from spring next year.

In December, the visuals will be displayed at prominent stations, like Manchester Piccadilly.

The Path to Nationalisation

The legislation, which will enable the formation of Great British Railways, is presently making its way through the legislative process.

The government has said it is renationalising the railways so the service is "owned by the public, operating for the public, not for private shareholders."

The new body will unify the operation of train services and tracks and signals under a unified structure.

The government has stated it will combine seventeen various entities and "eliminate the frustrating red tape and accountability gap that hinders the railways."

App-Based Features and Current Ownership

The rollout of Great British Railways will also involve a comprehensive app, which will allow passengers to view train times and purchase journeys free from booking fees.

Disabled passengers will also be have the option to use the application to book assistance.

A number of franchises had already been nationalised under the previous government, including Northern.

There are now 7 operating companies now in state ownership, covering about a third of journeys.

In the past year, South Western Railway have been brought into public ownership, with more expected to be added in the coming years.

Official and Sector Comments

"The new design isn't just a cosmetic change," stated the relevant minister. It symbolises "a new railway, shedding the frustrations of the previous system and concentrated solely on offering a proper passenger-focused service."

Industry representatives have welcomed the government's commitment to bettering the passenger experience.

"We will carry on to work closely with all stakeholders to facilitate a successful handover to the new system," one executive added.