A second Hong Kong university has voiced interest in building facilities in a no-man's land near the border.
Polytechnic University would have a proposal ready by month's end for construction on the Lok Ma Chau Loop, said president Timothy Tong Wai-cheung. He said it wanted to set up research laboratories.
'We also hope to offer programmes for students from Hong Kong and Shenzhen,' Professor Tong said. 'We are discussing what subjects are most suitable. Commerce, engineering and community studies will very likely be included.'
Chinese University's vice-chancellor, Lawrence Lau Juen-yee, voiced a desire last month to set up facilities on the loop, which was created by straightening the Shenzhen River more than a decade ago.
The area belongs to Hong Kong but is north of the river, has no physical link to the rest of the city, and is covered in a layer of toxic sludge.
The site has been earmarked by the two cities for university facilities, research and creative industries.
Professor Tong - in charge at PolyU for four months - said its development plans included expansion in the Pearl River Delta region.