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The Transport Department has unveiled the visual identity for GBR, marking a significant stride in its agenda to take the railways under nationalisation.

A National Colour Scheme and Familiar Emblem

The new design features a red, white and blue palette to reflect the UK flag and will be rolled out on GBR trains, at stations, and across its website and app.

Notably, the symbol is the recognisable twin-arrow logo currently used by the national rail network and first introduced in the mid-20th century for the former state operator.

The Implementation Plan

The phased introduction of the new look, which was created internally, is expected to take place in phases.

Commuters are expected to start spotting the newly-branded services on the UK rail network from next spring.

During the month of December, the visuals will be showcased at key stations, such as Glasgow Central.

A Journey to Nationalisation

The legislation, which will enable the establishment of GBR, is currently making its way through the Parliament.

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

The new body will bring the running of passenger trains and tracks and signals under a unified structure.

The department has stated it will merge seventeen separate organisations and "cut through the problematic administrative hurdles and poor accountability that has long affected the railways."

Digital Services and Existing Ownership

The rollout of GBR will also include a comprehensive app, which will enable users to view train times and purchase journeys without surcharges.

Passengers with disabilities users will also be have the option to use the application to book support.

Multiple franchises had earlier been nationalised under the outgoing administration, such as TPE.

There are now seven train operators already in public hands, accounting for about a third of journeys.

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

Ministerial and Industry Reaction

"This isn't just a paint job," said the Transport Secretary. It represents "a fresh start, shedding the issues of the previous system and concentrated entirely on delivering a genuine passenger-focused service."

Industry figures have welcomed the pledge to enhancing services.

"The industry will continue to cooperate with industry partners to support a successful changeover to the new system," a representative added.