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The Transport Department has presented the branding for the new national rail body, constituting a major stride in its plans to bring the railways back into state hands.

An National Colour Scheme and Familiar Emblem

The updated design uses a patriotic colour scheme to echo the Union Flag and will be used on locomotives, at terminals, and across its digital platforms.

Notably, the emblem is the recognisable twin-arrow logo presently used by the national rail network and originally designed in the mid-20th century for the former state operator.

A Introduction Plan

The phased introduction of the branding, which was designed by the department, is set to happen over time.

Travellers are expected to start spotting the freshly-liveried trains on the network from the coming spring.

Throughout the month of December, the design will be showcased at key stations, like Manchester Piccadilly.

A Path to Renationalisation

The proposed law, which will enable the formation of Great British Railways, 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, operating for the people, not for private shareholders."

GBR will consolidate the running of passenger trains and tracks and signals under a single organisation.

The government has claimed it will combine 17 separate organisations and "reduce the notorious bureaucracy and poor accountability that has long affected the railways."

App-Based Services and Existing Ownership

The launch of GBR will also feature a dedicated app, which will enable customers to see train times and reserve tickets absent additional fees.

Passengers with disabilities users will also be able to use the app to arrange support.

A number of train companies had previously been nationalised under the former government, such as LNER.

There are now seven operating companies already in state ownership, covering about a third of journeys.

In the past year, 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 new logo," stated the Transport Secretary. It signifies "a new railway, casting off the problems of the previous system and focused completely on offering a reliable service for the public."

Industry representatives have acknowledged the focus to bettering services.

"The industry will continue to collaborate with industry partners to ensure a seamless transition to Great British Railways," a senior figure added.