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The UK government has introduced the visual identity for Great British Railways, signifying a major advance in its agenda to take the railways back into state hands.

A Patriotic Colour Scheme and Familiar Symbol

The fresh design showcases a red, white and blue colour scheme to represent the national flag and will be rolled out on rolling stock, at stations, and across its website and app.

Significantly, the emblem is the recognisable double-arrow symbol currently used by National Rail and originally created in the 1960s for the former state operator.

A Implementation Plan

The rollout of the new look, which was developed by the department, is set to take place over time.

Travellers are scheduled to start noticing the newly-branded trains across the UK rail network from the coming spring.

During the month of December, the visuals will be displayed at key stations, like Glasgow Central.

The Journey to Public Ownership

The Railways Bill, which will allow the formation of GBR, is currently moving through the legislative process.

The government has argued it is taking control of the railways so the system is "run by the people, working for the people, not for private shareholders."

The new body will bring the operation of passenger trains and infrastructure under one umbrella body.

The government has stated it will combine 17 various entities and "reduce the frustrating bureaucracy and accountability gap that has long affected the railways."

Digital Services and Existing Public Control

The introduction of GBR will also include a dedicated app, which will allow passengers to view schedules and purchase tickets free from booking fees.

Disabled travellers will also be have the option to use the application to arrange help.

Multiple train companies had previously been nationalised under the previous government, including TPE.

There are currently seven operating companies now in state ownership, covering about a third of passenger trips.

In the past year, c2c have been nationalised, with additional operators likely to follow in the coming years.

Ministerial and Industry Reaction

"The new design isn't just a cosmetic change," commented the Transport Secretary. It represents "a new railway, leaving behind the issues of the past and concentrated solely on delivering a proper passenger-focused service."

Industry figures have responded positively to the government's commitment to bettering the passenger experience.

"We will carry on to work closely with all stakeholders to facilitate a successful changeover to Great British Railways," a senior figure said.