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The UK government has unveiled the logo and livery for Great British Railways, constituting a key step in its policy to take the railways into public ownership.

An National Design and Familiar Logo

The updated livery incorporates a red, white and blue design to reflect the Union Flag and will be rolled out on rolling stock, at railway stations, and across its website and app.

Notably, the logo is the recognisable double-arrow symbol historically used by the national rail network and originally introduced in the mid-20th century for British Rail.

A Introduction Plan

The rollout of the branding, which was designed internally, is scheduled to happen over time.

Commuters are scheduled to begin seeing the freshly-liveried trains throughout the national network from next spring.

In December, the branding will be displayed at key stations, including London Bridge.

The Journey to Renationalisation

The legislation, which will pave the way the creation of Great British Railways, is presently making its way through the Parliament.

The government has said it is bringing back into public ownership the railways so the service is "run by the public, operating for the public, not for corporate interests."

Great British Railways will consolidate the running of passenger trains and infrastructure under one umbrella body.

The department has said it will unify 17 separate organisations and "cut through the problematic bureaucracy and lack of accountability that hinders the railways."

Digital Services and Existing Ownership

The rollout of GBR will also feature a new mobile application, which will enable passengers to check timetables and reserve tickets absent booking fees.

Passengers with disabilities users will also be have the option to use the application to arrange support.

Several train companies had earlier been nationalised under the previous government, such as TPE.

There are now seven operating companies already in public hands, representing about a one-third of passenger trips.

In the past year, South Western Railway have been nationalised, with more anticipated 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 symbolises "a fresh start, shedding the frustrations of the past and concentrated completely on delivering a genuine service for the public."

Rail leaders have acknowledged the focus to enhancing services.

"The industry will carry on to collaborate with industry partners to support a smooth changeover to Great British Railways," a senior figure said.