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Lovers bridge padlocks removed over safety concern

BBC Gower Bridge is seen with a sign explaining its historical significance. In the background there are fields and trees on a foggy day in Llanrwst.BBC
It has become a tradition for some people to fix a padlock to Gower Bridge in Llanrwst, Conwy county

Residents have been left feeling "disappointed" after their romantic trinkets were removed from a picturesque suspension bridge over safety concerns.

Padlocks engraved with couples' names and messages of love were attached to Gower's Bridge over the River Conwy in Llanrwst.

But Conwy council said some locks were recently removed because they "were causing the mesh to rust" which has led to safety concerns.

A Llanrwst resident posted on social media: "We would like our lock back as it meant a lot to us and it's disappointing that this wasn't considered before these locks were removed without warning."

Engraved padlocks are used as a way of declaring eternal love when couples attach them to romantic spots - usually bridges - and often throw away the key.

The 2006 Italian novel Ho Voglia di Te (I Want You) by Federico Moccia is thought to be the inspiration for the trend.

John Lawson-Reay Two padlocks affixed to a the railings of a footbridgeJohn Lawson-Reay
When Sharon and Alex put theirs on they wanted to tell the world they were "locked in love"

The Pont des Arts over the River Seine in Paris became so loaded with locks it is estimated they added 45 tonnes to the bridge's load and had to be removed.

Other councils in the UK have also removed or relocated padlocks on bridges.

A rusting padlock sits on the railing of Gower Bridge in Llanrwst. The name's Joan and Ron are displayed on it with the date November 1959.
Conwy council said the padlocks were rusting and that it was having a detrimental effect on the bridge

In a statement Conwy council said: "We realise that attaching padlocks is seen as a romantic gesture but it can cause harm.

"Unfortunately, there have been examples at tourist destinations across the world where such padlocks have compromised the safety and durability of much-loved bridges and structures."

A rusting padlock sits on the railing of Gower Bridge in Llanrwst
The structure has become a place for couples to declare their love

Gower's Bridge, built in 1947, is part of a long list of bridges which have become the focal point for couples wishing to declare their love.

However opinion is divided on the tradition with some calling the locks a "menace".

But another added on Facebook: " "It's such a shame. My partner proposed to me last year and had a lovely [padlock] put on."