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The UK government has introduced the branding for GBR, marking a significant move in its policy to take the railways into public ownership.

An National Colour Scheme and Iconic Symbol

The fresh branding uses a patriotic palette to echo the Union Flag and will be used on GBR trains, at stations, and across its online presence.

Notably, the logo is the well-known double-arrow logo currently used by National Rail and originally introduced in the 1960s for British Rail.

The Rollout Plan

The introduction of the new look, which was developed internally, is scheduled to happen over time.

Passengers are scheduled to begin seeing the freshly-liveried services across the network from spring next year.

During December, the design will be exhibited at key railway stations, like Leeds City.

The Journey to Public Ownership

The Railways Bill, which will enable the creation of Great British Railways, is currently moving through the legislative process.

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

GBR will bring the running of train services and infrastructure under a single organisation.

The government has said it will merge seventeen separate organisations and "reduce the frustrating bureaucracy and poor accountability that continues to plague the railways."

Digital Features and Current Public Control

The launch of GBR will also involve a new mobile application, which will enable customers to check timetables and book journeys free from surcharges.

Accessibility passengers will also be have the option to use the application to request assistance.

Multiple franchises had previously been nationalised under the former administration, including LNER.

There are currently seven operating companies now in public hands, accounting for about a third of journeys.

In the past year, Greater Anglia have been brought into public ownership, with further franchises likely to be added in 2026.

Official and Industry Comments

"The new design is not simply a new logo," said the Transport Secretary. It symbolises "a new railway, casting off the issues of the previous system and concentrated entirely on providing a genuine service for the public."

Rail leaders have responded positively to the focus to improving the passenger experience.

"The industry will carry on to work closely with all stakeholders to facilitate a successful transition to Great British Railways," one executive added.