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

[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)