Iconic 'love locks' on Paris bridge removed by city hall (Now you see me...)

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.turnto10.com/story/29215656/iconic-love-locks-on-paris-bridge-removed-by-city-hall

Posted: Jun 02, 2015 7:25 AM CDT
Updated: Jun 02, 2015 7:25 AM CDT
By NBC NEWS

PARIS -
For years, padlocks have been latched by lovers on Paris' Pont des Arts bridge as a symbol of their everlasting bond. But it turns out the little tokens of lifelong affection won't be so permanent after all. French officials will bid adieu to the locks and start removing them on Monday after sections of the railings became "weakened under the weight," the city's council said on its website. That poses a risk to people using the bridge, authorities say.

"We want all the people who are in love, we want them to come to Paris but we don't want them to use love locks," said Bruno Julliard, the first deputy to the mayor of Paris.

But some romantic visitors told NBC News that they were shocked that their tokens of love would be removed.

Londoner Gary Pearson, who pledged his love to Australian partner Ezra Ahorro, said he was "disappointed" that their padlock's days were numbered.

FULL story and video at link.



File photo shows a newly wed couple resting on the Pont des Arts in Paris, France. (AP Image)

[Recursion]

1. They do this every few years I think as the bridge starts to crack

They promise they really mean it this time, and nobody can put locks there anymore, and then in a few weeks the gendarmes stop caring and couples start putting the locks on again.

My wife and I have (had) a lock on there.

[global1]

2. Why Don't They Remove The Railings With The Locks Still On Them And Put Them In Some....

Parisian art museum and then replace the railings with new ones? Looking at the posted picture - this fence railing looks like a piece of art. I'm surprised that the French - usually very artsy - didn't think of doing that.

It would almost be worth it for someone to purchase the railings with the locks and build a museum to house them and charge admission.

It is really and interesting tradition that should be kept going.

[Ford_Prefect]

3. Its something that began about 10 years ago and threatens other landmark bridges as well.

It is not a "tradition" merely a somewhat selfish practice with rather severe consequences.
Suppose this was at the edge of the grand canyon while at the bottom was a 5 story pile of keys. Imagine the Statue of Liberty knee deep in the same locks.

While the gesture may seem romantic the side effects are not. As one who has enjoyed the original forms of Paris architecture I am offended at the arrogance of those who deface the bridges, however innocent the intention.

Do I leave a similarly egregious calling card nailed to the door of their home?

[jberryhill]

4. A thumbtack and a used condom weigh a lot less

[Quackers]

5. And help to prevent nasty custody battles. Lol