The policy of not providing entrance metal gates in new public rental housing units will continue to ensure the rational use of public resources and develop housing blocks in the most cost-effective manner.

However, special arrangements will be made for the estates that accept tenants who need to be rehomed due to public housing redevelopment.

Housing Authority's Building Committee Chairman Phil Nunn said that the body has thoroughly examined views expressed since the policy was approved last June. It reaffirmed the decision after taking into account residents' interests.

Gates are 'a desirable security feature', not a basic need

A metal gate at the entrance to a flat is a desirable security feature rather than a basic need in domestic units, Mr Nunn said.

"Public rental housing units without entrance metal gates are as secure as those in private residential buildings, where developers seldom install iron gates for occupants nowadays."

Security measures taken in public rental estates include a ground floor security gate with a digital lock, closed circuit television and door-phone systems, 24-hour security guards, flat entrance doors with a door viewer and security door guard. All these measures are similar to those in private residential developments.

Moreover, the design and layout of such estates have improved in such a way that ventilation and tenants' interaction will not be affected.

Tenants free to install metal gates at their own expense

At present, tenants may install metal gates of their own choice and at their own cost should they wish to do so.  They may also choose to take up existing refurbished vacant flats where metal gates have been installed.

"In view of the authority's financial stringency situation and hence the general need for cost saving in the construction of our buildings, the policy is deemed reasonable and logical," Mr Nunn said.

Nevertheless, the policy will not apply to the reception estates for the Comprehensive Redevelopment Programme as it is initiated by the authority and many affected tenants are senior citizens who have been living in units with metal gates for a long time.