Students from the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University have teamed up with Severn Trent and local partners to help shape the future of a much-loved Nottingham landmark.
Following a collaborative design challenge involving architecture students from both universities, the teams have unveiled nine shortlisted designs for a new lovelocks installation at Wilford Suspension Bridge. The project aims to create a new public space where the bridge’s historic lovelocks can find a new home after their removal in 2025.
The initiative brings together the University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University, Severn Trent, Nottingham City Council and local residents to develop a lasting feature for the riverside location.
The shortlisted concepts showcase a range of creative ideas inspired by love, memories and community. These include ribbon walks, amphitheatres, love trees and swan-shaped structures.
Members of the public are now being invited to view the designs and share their feedback before a judging panel selects the winning proposal. The panel includes representatives from both universities, Severn Trent, Nottingham City Council and a local resident.
Professor Lucelia Rodrigues, Head of Architecture & Built Environment at the University of Nottingham, praised the students’ work and the collaborative nature of the project.
The students captured the emotion and significance attached to the lovelocks while responding thoughtfully to the surrounding landscape. The quality of the designs has been exceptional, and this partnership has provided a valuable opportunity for students to contribute to a project with real impact for the local community.
Dr Lois Woods, Course Leader for BArch Architecture at Nottingham Trent University, said the competition demonstrated the value of universities working together on live projects.
This has been a fantastic collaboration between the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University. The students have developed innovative and practical proposals while gaining experience of working with real clients and stakeholders. We look forward to continuing to work together in the future.
Severn Trent’s Environmental Communications Lead, Sam Wilson, highlighted the creativity shown by students from both institutions and the care taken to preserve the sentiment behind the original lovelocks.
Public feedback will help inform the final decision when the judging panel meets later this month.
View the shortlisted designs and vote: https://www.stwater.co.uk/news/wilford-suspension-bridge-lovelocks/
The public feedback period closes on 12 June 2026.
