If the plans are approved building would begin in 2011

The development, by Prudential, aims to transform former gravel pits east of Theale into a self-contained new town for about 16,000 people.

A sandy beach has been revealed as the centrepiece of the land-locked Kennet Valley Park super estate.

The exhibition is taking place at the Calcot Hotel from 27 to 29 June.

More than 18,000 homes are being targeted with leaflets in a bid to get the public to back the plans.

If the development gets the go-ahead, the first phase of building would begin in 2011, including the beach, a new railway station, a primary school and 2,000 homes.

Local parishes near Theale are concerned about the impact that the development will have on their villages.

Back gardens built on

The Environment Agency is also worried about the consequences of building on a flood plain and the development of a natural beauty spot, which many local residents have spent 20 years trying to protect.

Prudential property director Mike Rolls says the proposals would help West Berkshire District Council meet government targets to provide 9,000 new homes by 2016 and safeguards 1,000 acres of Kennet Meadow as a country park.

He said: "If houses continue to be provided by infill and by squeezing them into existing towns then every sports field and back garden gets built on."

A planning application to the council is expected at the beginning of next year.