Following the adoption of the Malta Structure Plan, IRMCo was commissioned by the Planning Authority (now MEPA) to undertake a number of Local Plan Studies. 

Starting with a Geological and Geomorphological Survey for the Marsaxlokk Local Plan; IRMCo was entrusted with the preparation of both a Water Conservation Plan and a Geological Conservation Plan for the Malta North-West Local Plan.

In addition to the local environmental policy framework and the relevant EU directives, these Local Plan studies were guided by the conservation schemes developed by English Heritage on geology and by the UK Ministry for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries (MAFF) in relation to water.

Surveys of the different environmental resources were organized according to a standardized format.  During a first stage, all areas were identified which were considered to be under immediate threat of damage.  The detailed extent, quality and characteristics of the geological and water resources were then mapped during a second stage.  Recommendations for the long-term conservation of these resources were the objective of a third and final stage.