The nine designs are all intended to be sited close to the existing bridge and include old locks and room for new ones to be fitted.
The judging panel is made of representatives from the bridge’s owner Severn Trent, the two universities, Nottingham City Council and a member of the public.
Local resident Alex Tullett, who is part of the judging panel, said: “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.”