Trial separation: Paris removes “love locks” from bridge over fears of collapse

An estimated 45 tonnes of padlocks bolted on the Pont des Arts bridge in Paris by couples to signify their enduring love were removed last week after fears that the weight would cause the bridge to fail.

The 700,000 love locks had caused a section of the bridge to collapse in June last year.

Many praised the French capital for removing a tourist gimmick; others were disappointed that the city of love was not living up to its name.

Paris town hall said: "This phenomenon generates two problems: a lasting degradation of the heritage of Paris and also a risk to the safety of visitors, Parisians and tourists."

There are many other bridges across the world that sport "love locks".

The locks are due to be recycled. Paris has put street art on the bridge as a replacement.

Image: Couples securing padlocks to the Pont des Arts in Paris (David McSpadden/Wikimedia Commons)