Scira's visualisation of what the windfarm will look like from Norfolk

The Sheringham Shoal Offshore Windfarm could provide power for 178,000 homes.

If the proposals are given the backing of the government, work could start on the windfarm by 2009.

Local people are being asked for their views and can see a series of displays in libraries across Norfolk, organised by the firm behind the scheme, Scira.

Kerry-Leigh Bradfield, Scira's communications manager, said the firm was keen to hear the views of local people.

'Renewable energy target'

She said a company study into the impact of the project said that it would "not have any long term adverse effects on the environment".

She added: "Furthermore, this project will make a significant contribution to the UK's renewable energy targets".

Ms Bradfield said information on the project was also available on the firm's website and there will also be public exhibitions at: The Burlington Hotel, Sheringham on 28 June; The Cliftonville Hotel, Cromer, on 29 June; The Matlins, Wells-next-the-Sea on 30 June.

The Department of Trade and Industry is likely to make a decision on the plans during the next 12 months.