The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) is responsible for the identification and protection of sites of scientific and cultural importance. The scope of MEPA's activities is to safeguard such sites according to established international practices and standards. In order to achieve its aims, MEPA undertakes responsibility for the preparation of management plans for such sites.

The areas known as Qawra and Dwejra, on the western coast of the island of Gozo, have for several years been considered as prime candidates for designation as sites of scientific and cultural importance, and their protection was specifically promoted in the Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands. Their potential as areas protected for natural and cultural aims was first officially recognised in 1992, when the House of Representatives approved the above-mentioned Structure Plan.

MEPA has approved this Action Plan as the Qawra/Dwejra Heritage Park. This includes proposals for 23 management measures to be implemented in order for the site to achieve the desired levels of protection of natural and culture heritage, in compliance with the above-mentioned laws and plans. As specified in the Development Planning Act, this document was subject to a period for public consultation between the 12th of April 2005 and the 24th of May 2005. During this discussion period, a number of meetings with members of the public and different sectors were organised. MEPA also receive comments from the public regarding the Plan in general as well as specific aspects of it. These comments were reviewed and considered by MEPA before the Plan was submitted for final approval to the Minister for Rural Affairs and the Environment.

The preparation of this Plan, as well as part of its implementation, are being financed by the European Community through the LIFE Third COUNTRIES scheme. Efforts to obtain funding through this scheme were coordinated by Nature Trust (Malta) together with MEPA and the Italian branch of the international non-governmental organisation (NGO) World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF Italia). The preparation of the Action Plan was overseen by a Committee appointed by the Minister for Rural Affairs and the Environment. Members of the Committee were representatives of the Ministry for Gozo, MEPA, San Lawrenz Local Council and Nature Trust (Malta).