🔗 Share this article A Fresh Identity for the UK's National Rail Body is Revealed. The government has revealed the branding for Great British Railways, representing a significant move in its agenda to take the railways under public control. An Patriotic Design and Historic Emblem The updated design incorporates a patriotic colour scheme to reflect the UK flag and will be rolled out on locomotives, at railway stations, and across its website and app. Notably, the symbol is the well-known twin-arrow logo historically used by National Rail and originally created in the 1960s for British Rail. The distinctive double-arrow symbol was formerly used by British Rail. The Implementation Strategy The introduction of the design, which was designed in-house, is set to occur over time. Commuters are expected to begin spotting the newly-branded services on the network from the coming spring. During the month of December, the branding will be showcased at prominent railway stations, like Birmingham New Street. A Path to Public Ownership The legislation, which will pave the way the formation of Great British Railways, is presently making its way through the Parliament. The administration has argued it is taking control of the railways so the system is "run by the passengers, delivering for the public, not for corporate interests." The new body will bring the operation of passenger trains and tracks and signals under one umbrella body. The department has said it will combine seventeen various bodies and "reduce the frustrating bureaucracy and lack of accountability that continues to plague the railways." App-Based Services and Current Ownership The rollout of Great British Railways will also involve a comprehensive mobile application, which will allow users to check timetables and purchase journeys free from surcharges. Accessibility travellers will also be have the option to use the application to arrange assistance. A concept of what the GBR application might appear. Several operators had earlier been taken into public control under the former government, including TPE. There are currently 7 train operators now in public hands, representing about a one-third of journeys. In the last twelve months, South Western Railway have been brought into public ownership, with further franchises expected to follow in 2026. Ministerial and Industry Response "This isn't just a new logo," said the Transport Secretary. It symbolises "a transformed service, casting off the problems of the past and dedicated entirely on providing a reliable service for the public." Industry figures have acknowledged the pledge to enhancing the passenger experience. "The industry will continue to work closely with relevant bodies to support a successful changeover to the new system," one executive added.