A public meeting is being held over plans to create a huge barrage across the Wash with a new container port.

Centre Port, which is behind the £2bn scheme, says it would generate tidal power, protect the Fens from flooding and allow a new deep sea port to be opened.

But environmental groups said the structure, which would stretch from Hunstanton to Skegness, would have "catastrophic impacts" on wildlife.

Eastern Daily Press:

Hunstanton Town Council (HTC) is holding a public meeting at the resort's town hall on Friday, October 20 (7pm).

Town clerk Jan Roomes said: "The purpose of this meeting is to inform the general public about all aspects of the proposals for the Wash Barrier.

"These range from, green energy production, tidal flooding problems, economic impact and environmental issues.

"HTC recognises that the public awareness over the proposals and the issues surrounding them is currently quite limited and we would like to ensure our residents and those of North West Norfolk are fully informed."

Eastern Daily Press: Conservationists fear the proposals would damage fragile tidal habitats in The WashConservationists fear the proposals would damage fragile tidal habitats in The Wash (Image: Matthew Usher)

The meeting will be chaired by town councillor Robert Corby, chair of HTC's environment committee.

Mr Corby said speakers would include a representative from Centre Port, who would provide an update on its proposals.

Terry Parish, leader of West Norfolk council, would outline the borough's position.

Tim Jickells, a professor of environmental sciences, would be among the speakers, along with representatives from conservation groups.

Eastern Daily Press: The Wash at low tideThe Wash at low tide (Image: Ian Burt)

Centre Port's prospectus said turbines included in the scheme could harness the tides and power 600,000 homes.  

Conservationists fear it could damage internationally important tidal habitats.

Power company Centrica has signed an expression of interest in electricity from the scheme.

Plans for a barrage were proposed in 2008 but abandoned after an outcry from conservation groups.

But in 2019, the Environment Agency said some kind of barrier might one day be needed to protect low-lying areas of King's Lynn. 

Centre Port is now trying to raise £5m for a feasibility study.