City University said on Wednesday that it will seek to remove its gates by the beginning of next year.

Currently, students and staff of the university are required to tap their cards at all gateways to enter, while members of the public are required to register their visit three working days in advance.

The university's president, Freddy Boey, said they want to welcome guests from all over the world, but plans are needed to protect the interests of the university and the public.

"Of course we welcome people to come to City University and look at the campus and get inspired. If young people can come in and be inspired, I'll be very happy," he said.

"But at the same time, we need for the campus to have some reasonable safety, for example people wandering into laboratories that may contain dangerous chemicals, expensive equipment, and so on," he added.

Boey said the university will take small steps at a time and start by moving the gates further back so more areas can be opened to the public.

The university head said for example, the turnstiles have been moved to accommodate a newly renovated tunnel, which connects the campus and Festival Walk.

CityU said the 50-metre tunnel, filled with LED screens, will showcase elements of Sham Shui Po district where the university is located, and become a new tourist hotspot so visitors can take pictures and learn about the area.