The Transport Department has revealed the logo and livery for GBR, signifying a major advance in its agenda to take the railways under public control.
A Patriotic Palette and Iconic Emblem
The new branding uses a red, white and blue palette to reflect the national flag and will be used on rolling stock, at terminals, and across its online presence.
Interestingly, the logo is the distinctive double-arrow logo historically used by National Rail and originally introduced in the 1960s for the former state operator.
The Introduction Strategy
The implementation of the branding, which was developed by the department, is set to happen gradually.
Commuters are set to start noticing the newly-branded trains across the UK rail network from next spring.
In December, the design will be displayed at major railway stations, such as Manchester Piccadilly.
The Path to Renationalisation
The Railways Bill, which will enable the formation of Great British Railways, is presently making its way through the legislative process.
The government has said it is taking control of the railways so the service is "owned by the passengers, working for the public, not for corporate interests."
GBR will consolidate the operation of passenger trains and tracks and signals under a single organisation.
The government has said it will unify 17 different entities and "eliminate the frustrating bureaucracy and poor accountability that has long affected the railways."
Digital Services and Existing Ownership
The introduction of GBR will also involve a dedicated app, which will let users to check schedules and reserve tickets free from booking fees.
Accessibility users will also be able to use the app to arrange help.
Several operators had previously been nationalised under the outgoing government, including Northern.
There are now 7 operating companies already in state ownership, representing about a third of rail travel.
In the last twelve months, Greater Anglia have been brought into public ownership, with additional operators likely to be added in the coming years.
Official and Industry Response
"This is more than a new logo," stated the relevant minister. It signifies "a fresh start, casting off the issues of the past and dedicated completely on delivering a proper public service."
Rail representatives have welcomed the focus to improving services.
"The industry will carry on to work closely with industry partners to facilitate a successful handover to Great British Railways," a representative said.
