OWNERSHIP of Adams Lane, at the rear of the Southside shops on High Street, Berwick, came under question last week when a property owner had the words “Parking Cheese Shop” painted on the road.

The sign purports to lay claim to the road, but the City of Casey says it has a public right of way over the strip. The owners were away and could not be contacted before the Gazette went to press, but Berwick Village Chamber of Commerce president Michael Hall said the action raised concerns.

He said many High Street property titles went across Adams Lane.

The lane runs from Clyde Road east to the Gloucester Avenue shops.

“I have been aware that property titles went over the lane but believed it had become a right of way over the years because of public usage and adverse possession,” Mr Hall said.

“But the council’s parking strategy takes this into account. Many tenants would not be aware of the property alignments, al-though owners would be.

“This is tricky and needs to be dealt with. Ownership of the land needs to be ascertained because we have a hotchpotch situation.”

Edrington Ward councillor Mick Morland said he would take the matter up with council.

“I believe the council and public has a right of way on the road but we have to sort it,” Cr Morland said.

“The lane was constructed as a public road and comes under the control and management of the council. It would appear the recent works have been undertaken without formal approval and council officers are investigating the matter.”