RUMFORD – Planning Board members Wednesday night approved a 14-lot, 43-acre subdivision on Holman Road. They also delayed final action on a $5.8 million renovation and expansion project for Rumford Hospital until an independent engineering firm takes a look at the facility’s building plans.

Owners Brian and Kelly LaVallee sought permission to subdivide the scenic parcel into lots, ranging from 1.1 acres to 6 acres, located on Holman Mountain. Engineer Bob Berry of Main Land Development Consultants Inc. of Livermore Falls said the parcel is wooded but has some of the most beautiful views in the region.

The board approved the plan, contingent upon payment of $2,000 escrow, and an agreement that lots will not receive building permits until the 1,700-foot gravel road is completed.

Chief executive officer of Rumford Hospital, John Welsh, had expected final approval on the hospital’s plan so work could begin when he entered the meeting Wednesday night. However, the board, following the recommendation of Town Manager Jim Doar and town attorney Jennifer Kreckel, delayed action until an independent engineer chosen by the town can review the plan created by Taylor Engineering of Auburn.

“We’re anxious to get started,” Welsh said.

Code enforcement officer Rick Kent said after the meeting that calling for an engineering second opinion is common practice for such large projects.

“We just want to make sure they are being compliant with regulations,” he said.

Board Chairman Gary Casey said he would call a special Planning Board meeting to act on the hospital’s request once the review is complete.

The hospital must pay the cost of the engineer’s review, as well as $8,000 escrow.

Plans call for constructing 16,000 square feet of space, and renovating about 30,000 square feet of the hospital.

Ledgewood Construction of Portland has been chosen to do the work, with a completion date set for sometime next year.

Also on Wednesday, the board welcomed new alternate member Jim Thibodeau, and new regular member Seth Carey, who replaced longtime board member Brad Adley. Adley was elected selectman in June.