🔗 Share this article The Updated Identity for the UK's National Rail Body is Unveiled. The Transport Department has presented the logo and livery for the new national rail body, marking a key advance in its strategy to bring the railways back into state hands. An National Colour Scheme and Familiar Logo The updated branding features a red, white and blue design to reflect the national flag and will be used on rolling stock, at terminals, and across its online presence. Interestingly, the symbol is the distinctive twin-arrow design currently used by National Rail and originally created in the 1960s for the former state operator. The famous twin-arrow logo was formerly used by British Rail. A Implementation Plan The introduction of the design, which was developed internally, is set to happen over time. Commuters are scheduled to begin seeing the newly-branded services throughout the network from next spring. In the month of December, the visuals will be showcased at prominent railway stations, including Glasgow Central. A Journey to Public Ownership The Railways Bill, which will allow the creation of Great British Railways, is currently moving through the House of Commons. The administration has argued it is bringing back into public ownership the railways so the service is "owned by the passengers, delivering for the passengers, not for profit." The new body will bring the operation of train services and infrastructure under one umbrella body. The department has stated it will combine 17 separate entities and "eliminate the problematic red tape and poor accountability that hinders the railways." Digital Services and Existing Public Control The rollout of Great British Railways will also feature a dedicated mobile application, which will let customers to check timetables and reserve tickets absent additional fees. Passengers with disabilities travellers will also be have the option to use the application to book assistance. A mock up of what the GBR application might look. A number of train companies had already been taken into public control under the former administration, such as LNER. There are now seven operating companies already in state ownership, representing about a third of passenger trips. In the last twelve months, South Western Railway have been brought into public ownership, with additional operators expected to be added in the coming years. Official and Sector Comments "The new design is not simply a cosmetic change," said the Transport Secretary. It signifies "a new railway, shedding the problems of the previous system and concentrated entirely on delivering a proper service for the public." Industry representatives have acknowledged the government's commitment to improving services. "We will carry on to cooperate with all stakeholders to facilitate a seamless transition to Great British Railways," a representative added.