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The administration has presented the branding for the new national rail body, representing a significant step in its strategy to take the railways under nationalisation.

An Patriotic Palette and Historic Symbol

The updated branding showcases a red, white and blue design to reflect the Union Flag and will be rolled out on locomotives, at stations, and across its digital platforms.

Interestingly, the symbol is the well-known double-arrow logo currently used by the national rail network and first created in the 1960s for the former state operator.

A Implementation Plan

The implementation of the new look, which was designed internally, is scheduled to occur in phases.

Passengers are expected to begin seeing the freshly-liveried services throughout the network from next spring.

During December, the visuals will be displayed at prominent railway stations, including Glasgow Central.

The Path to Public Ownership

The Railways Bill, which will pave the way the establishment of Great British Railways, is presently making its way through the House of Commons.

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

Great British Railways will bring the operation of train services and tracks and signals under one umbrella body.

The government has claimed it will combine seventeen separate bodies and "eliminate the notorious red tape and accountability gap that continues to plague the railways."

Digital Features and Current Ownership

The launch of GBR will also feature a dedicated app, which will allow users to view schedules and book tickets without surcharges.

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

Several franchises had already been nationalised under the previous administration, such as Southeastern.

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

In the past year, c2c have been nationalised, with more expected to be added in the coming years.

Official and Industry Comments

"This isn't just a paint job," commented the Transport Secretary. It signifies "a fresh start, leaving behind the problems of the past and concentrated completely on offering a genuine passenger-focused service."

Industry representatives have responded positively to the government's commitment to bettering services.

"The industry will carry on to collaborate with industry partners to ensure a smooth transition to the new system," a representative noted.