RUMFORD – The Planning Board decided last week to require review by an outside engineering firm whenever a major project comes before it.

Chairman Gary Casey said Thursday afternoon that the board has been receiving large projects, defined by the board at $100,000 or more, for such things as subdivision reviews. The cost of the engineering review will be paid by the developer.

“We’d feel more comfortable having an outside engineer review these projects,” he said.

The board will choose an engineering firm soon to conduct all such reviews.

In other matters on Wednesday, the board approved a change of occupancy and sign for a lingerie business expected to open later this month on Congress Street at the site of the former Subway sandwich shop.

The business, known as The Secret Beneath, is owned by Samantha Byam of Rumford.

Members also approved a change in plans by owners of the former Madison Motel and Restaurant on Route 2.

Casey said Richard Theriault, one of the owners, wants to revise the floor plans of several of the now under-construction condominium units.

When the business changed to a condominium project, all 13 units were to have first and second floor space.

Because of the number of older people who have inquired about the possibility of buying one of the units, several will be entirely located on the first floor, said Casey, to make for easier access.