NEWRY – A campground on the Bear River is in the works, but it must first undergo scrutiny by Newry’s Planning Board.

That scrutiny is to begin in earnest when Mark Wight submits a site plan application for his project, which could be as early as 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 5, in the town office, when the board next meets.

Newry planners have discussed the proposal with Wight at their Dec. 1 and Dec. 15 board meetings after Wight sought their opinions.

According to the Dec. 1 meeting minutes, Wight’s plan is to either construct tent sites or cabins and a bathhouse along the river.

Wight said he does not intend for his campground to compete with existing local campgrounds.

Planners discussed flooding potentials after learning that sections of the proposed campground were within Newry’s Shoreland Zone. The site also falls within its Resource Protection District.

Chairman Joseph Aloisio stated that if the campground is outside the river’s 100-year flood plain, then it falls within Newry Planning Board jurisdiction, meaning the board may review the application.

Planners asked Wight to get documentation regarding flooding. They also advised him he would need to file a Unified Development Review Ordinance Site Plan application with the town for the buildings he is proposing to construct.

Minutes from the Dec. 15 meeting were not yet available in the town office as of Monday.

Planners are also to discuss the proposed Merrill Hill Subdivision, Maine Mountain Properties, and proposed changes to the town’s fire ordinance.