Nine shortlisted designs, created by Nottingham students, have been made public for the first time as Severn Trent provides an insight into what the final structure may look like, from ribbon walks and amphitheatres to love trees and swan hearts.
Architecture students from the University of Nottingham (UoN) and Nottingham Trent University (NTU) were tasked with coming up with the designs, as Severn Trent looks to create a space for the public to use after removing lovelocks from the Wilford Suspension Bridge in 2025.
Severn Trent is now welcoming feedback from the public on the designs before a judging panel, made up of representatives from Severn Trent, UoN, NTU, Nottingham City Council and a member of the public, decides on a final winner.
To see the shortlisted designs, visit the Severn Trent website. The window for feedback closes on Friday 12 June 2026.
Alex Tullett, a Nottinghamshire resident and part of the judging panel, said: “I felt very privileged to be invited to judge the lovelock proposals. As someone who enjoys walks and runs along the river, I could easily envisage how the structures would complement and enhance the space.
“What stood out most was the thought and care that had gone into the proposals, particularly the balance between preserving the sentiment behind the lovelocks and considering how the public would interact with the installations. It’s a wonderful investment in a much-loved part of Nottingham.”
Lucelia Rodrigues, Head of Architecture & Built Environment at UoN, said: “We were so impressed with the entries. The students really captured the emotion and significance attached to the locks in their schemes, conveying through their designs the ability to lock in love and memories and provide a point of comfort. The students also responded really well to the landscape. It’s a beautiful part of Nottingham, and they have really considered where people come from, how they approach it, what their views are and how they relate to the place.
“It’s going to be really difficult to choose a winner from such a strong field, but whichever design wins, I am sure the people of Nottingham and the people whose locks will be rehomed into the new installation will be absolutely delighted with the result.”
Dr Lois Woods, Course Leader for BArch Architecture at Nottingham Trent University, said: “The LoveLocks design competition has been a great initiative for the students at both universities. The students produced some innovative designs and eye-catching posters in a very short timeframe, working collaboratively across year groups. Live projects like this offer great work experience for the students, with access to real clients and the possibility of having their design come to life in a built project.
“The students are also contributing to social sustainability and well-being, as the new structure will no doubt have a positive impact on the local community, and the memories will have a place by the river once more. All of the shortlisted entries are workable on the site, and there are some fantastic architectural ideas with great attention to detail. This has been a really fun collaboration with the University of Nottingham, and we will continue to work together in future!”
Sam Wilson, Environmental Comms Lead at Severn Trent, said: “It’s been incredible to see the hard work the students from both universities have put into their designs. Considering they only had a day to create them, their creativity and thought shine through in how empathetic their designs are towards those who had locks on the bridge.”
Once the feedback window closes, the judging panel will select a winning design, taking into account the views of the public.
