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The Transport Department has presented the visual identity for GBR, representing a key move in its agenda to bring the railways back into state hands.

A National Colour Scheme and Iconic Emblem

The new design features a patriotic palette to mirror the UK flag and will be applied on rolling stock, at terminals, and across its digital platforms.

Notably, the emblem is the distinctive twin-arrow symbol currently used by the national rail network and originally created in the 1960s for British Rail.

A Introduction Plan

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

Commuters are set to begin noticing the freshly-liveried trains on the UK rail network from spring next year.

During December, the branding will be displayed at key railway stations, like Glasgow Central.

A Path to Nationalisation

The proposed law, which will enable the establishment of Great British Railways, is currently progressing through the legislative process.

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

The new body will consolidate the operation of passenger trains and tracks and signals under a single organisation.

The department has said it will merge 17 various entities and "reduce the problematic administrative hurdles and lack of accountability that hinders the railways."

App-Based Features and Current Ownership

The launch of GBR will also involve a dedicated mobile application, which will allow users to see schedules and book journeys absent booking fees.

Disabled users will also be able to use the application to request help.

Multiple franchises had earlier been taken into public control under the outgoing administration, such as LNER.

There are currently seven train operators now in state ownership, representing about a one-third of passenger trips.

In the past year, South Western Railway have been brought into public ownership, with additional operators likely to be added in 2026.

Ministerial and Industry Reaction

"The new design is more than a new logo," said the Transport Secretary. It signifies "a new railway, casting off the frustrations of the past and dedicated completely on providing a genuine public service."

Rail representatives have acknowledged the focus to improving the passenger experience.

"We will continue to collaborate with industry partners to ensure a smooth transition to Great British Railways," a representative added.