In May 2022, Prowse was commissioned to research, write and consult on an Investment Plan for Wealden District Council, focused on securing and effectively allocating the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund over a three-year period. This required a deep understanding of Wealden’s unique challenges as a largely rural district and a clear strategy to direct investment where it would make the greatest impact.

Through thorough research and analysis, we identified three core challenges facing Wealden: lower-than-expected productivity levels; rapid housing and population growth; and significant climate change impacts threatening the area’s long-term resilience.

To ensure the plan directly responded to these issues, Jo led a robust programme of engagement, consulting with local MPs, Town and Parish Councils, community organisations and local charities to gather insight and secure buy-in.

The final Investment Plan set out clear priorities: establishing a business grants programme for capital investment, developing a project to grow and market Wealden’s emerging wine sector, and boosting rural tourism through targeted initiatives.

This approach strengthened local partnerships, addressed immediate economic challenges and laid solid foundations for long-term growth and resilience across the district. As a result of this work, Wealden District Council successfully secured its three year £1.1 million allocation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.