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The Transport Department has unveiled the logo and livery for the new national rail body, marking a notable move in its strategy to bring the railways into public ownership.

An Patriotic Colour Scheme and Familiar Symbol

The fresh branding features a Union Flag-inspired palette to reflect the UK flag and will be rolled out on locomotives, at terminals, and across its digital platforms.

Notably, the logo is the iconic twin-arrow design presently used by National Rail and originally created in the 1960s for British Rail.

A Rollout Plan

The implementation of the new look, which was developed internally, is expected to take place in phases.

Travellers are expected to start spotting the newly-branded trains across the UK rail network from spring next year.

In December, the design will be exhibited at key railway stations, like Manchester Piccadilly.

The Journey to Renationalisation

The proposed law, which will pave the way the creation of GBR, is presently progressing through the legislative process.

The government has said it is renationalising the railways so the service is "owned by the public, operating for the passengers, not for corporate interests."

Great British Railways will unify the operation of train services and infrastructure under one umbrella body.

The department has stated it will unify seventeen various entities and "cut through the notorious red tape and lack of accountability that has long affected the railways."

Digital Features and Current Ownership

The introduction of GBR will also feature a dedicated mobile application, which will allow users to view timetables and reserve journeys without booking fees.

Accessibility users will also be have the option to use the application to book assistance.

Multiple franchises had already been nationalised under the former administration, including TPE.

There are now 7 train operators already in public control, covering about a one-third of rail travel.

In the last twelve months, South Western Railway have been nationalised, with further franchises likely to be added in the coming years.

Ministerial and Sector Comments

"This is more than a paint job," commented the relevant minister. It symbolises "a transformed service, casting off the issues of the past and dedicated entirely on delivering a reliable service for the public."

Industry leaders have welcomed the pledge to enhancing services.

"We will continue to work closely with industry partners to support a seamless transition to GBR," a representative said.