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The Transport Department has revealed the visual identity for Great British Railways, representing a major move in its policy to take the railways under nationalisation.

An Patriotic Palette and Iconic Logo

The fresh livery features a Union Flag-inspired design to mirror the Union Flag and will be used on locomotives, at terminals, and across its website and app.

Interestingly, the symbol is the well-known twin-arrow symbol presently used by National Rail and previously designed in the mid-20th century for the former state operator.

The Rollout Plan

The rollout of the design, which was developed by the department, is expected to take place in phases.

Travellers are expected to start spotting the freshly-liveried trains on the UK rail network from spring next year.

In the month of December, the branding will be displayed at major stations, such as Manchester Piccadilly.

The Journey to Renationalisation

The Railways Bill, which will allow the formation of Great British Railways, is currently making its way through the Parliament.

The government has argued it is taking control of the railways so the service is "owned by the passengers, delivering for the public, not for profit."

Great British Railways will bring the running of passenger trains and infrastructure under a unified structure.

The government has said it will combine 17 different organisations and "reduce the frustrating red tape and lack of accountability that continues to plague the railways."

Digital Features and Current Ownership

The introduction of GBR will also include a new mobile application, which will allow users to see train times and reserve tickets without surcharges.

Passengers with disabilities travellers will also be able to use the application to arrange help.

A number of operators had already been taken into public control under the previous administration, such as Southeastern.

There are now seven train operators now in public hands, accounting for about a one-third of passenger trips.

In the last twelve months, c2c have been brought into public ownership, with more anticipated to follow in 2026.

Official and Sector Reaction

"The new design is not simply a paint job," said the Transport Secretary. It signifies "a new railway, leaving behind the problems of the past and concentrated completely on delivering a reliable public service."

Industry representatives have responded positively to the pledge to improving the passenger experience.

"The industry will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to support a seamless changeover to GBR," a senior figure noted.