Plans to dump engraved padlocks attached to a Pitlochry bridge have been blocked by a councillor.
Known as ‘love locks’, they are thought to symbolise unbreakable love between romantic couples.
The tokens of devotion secured to Port-na-Craig suspension bridge were to be broken off and binned unless sweethearts reclaimed them before a £275,000 revamp of the crossing, due to begin on October 14.
The approach was described as “heavy handed” by Highland councillor Kate Howie, who has offered to find a place for them in Pitlochry and Moulin Heritage Centre.
She said: “I have been discussing many facets of the project over a long period of time with the council project officer in charge of the refurbishment of the bridge and, in my capacity as vice-convener of the Moulin and Pitlochry Heritage Centre, I have offered to house the padlocks for a period of six months in case anyone wants to retrieve them.
“I do not feel they should be binned without giving folk the opportunity to claim them. Perhaps no one will claim them but I think it too heavy handed just to destroy them.”
Photographer Davy Nelson, 44, has created a montage of the love locks which, he says, have been collecting at the bridge for several years.
Mr Nelson said: “The bridge is in need of a refurbishment but I think binning the padlocks is a bit Big Brother.”
Completed in 1913, the Port-Na-Craig wire rope suspension bridge spans the River Tummel, linking Ferry Crescent in the town centre and Port-na-Craig Road, providing pedestrian access to Pitlochry Festival Theatre.
The upgrade will see hanger bars replaced and the main span and foundations strengthened. The historic structure will also be fully repainted in its existing colours.
It will close on October 14 and pedestrian diversions will be in place. It is expected to reopen on December 20.
A spokeswoman for Perth and Kinross Council said: “We will take every care to remove as many love locks as possible from Port-na-Craig footbridge without damaging them.”
Those who would like to reclaim a love lock can contact Ms Howie by calling 01887 840378 or emailing KHowie@pkc.gov.uk.