The developer behind plans for the old Livestock Market site in Limavady today defended moves to vest land that is part of a pensioner’s beloved garden.

The move came as the long running row between the developer and pensioner picked up speed, with the launch of a campaign.

We Support Ms Hunt car stickers were today being made available in the town after it emerged that the local council is seeking advice on whether Helena Hunt’s land can be vested.

It is the second time Ms Hunt has fought to save her garden. Plans to build a multi-million pound shopping complex were put on hold in 2001 after the developers failed in their efforts to persuade the former teacher to sell it — even though she was offered £250,000 for it.

Then aged 78, Ms Hunt turned down the offer in 2000, because, she said: “I love it too much.”

She has lived in the house in Catherine Street since she was born and she said at the time that money was not everything. She preferred to spend her final years sitting in her garden and feeding the birds.

Ms Hunt, who was said to be distraught after learning that the threat to her garden had resurfaced, said last week that she would again fight any attempt to take her land.

Revelations that the retired music teacher is again facing a battle came after councillors claimed that Limavady Borough Council was being asked to take legal advice on whether the site could be vested. The move has split the council.

Local businessman Charlie Mullin of Oakmore Developments said today that the development would bring jobs and that it was being hindered because of part of Ms Hunt’s garden.

In a statement issued today he said: “It is my belief that the proposed Market Yard retail scheme encompassing five acres of Limavady town centre represents a major town-centre regeneration programme which will act as an economic and social catalyst for the entire area.

“It is envisaged that this development will not only enhance the town’s ability to successfully compete with other areas in terms of retail provision but will also greatly improve the visual amenity of the town whilst creating upwards of 400 jobs in a time of serious economic difficulty. Other local businesses that provide materials and labour for the construction industry will also benefit greatly throughout the building programme.

“At present Limavady and the surrounding area is reeling from the effects of recent substantial job losses. There has been a lack of economic investment in the area for some significant time.

“I understand that an independent report commissioned by Limavady Borough Council has recognised the merits of our retail proposal and stressed that a small portion of an adjoining garden is essential in making the overall scheme work. Simply put, the possibility of attracting a strong anchor tenant is significantly hindered if this piece of garden is not included in the scheme.

“The vesting of this small portion of land by Limavady Borough Council is the only means of acquisition, and I'll stress again, the portion of land in question is a small strip to the rear of a long garden. The home owner will retain all rights to her house; ownership of her house will not in any way be affected.”

The North West Telegraph has learned that a group of locals in the town have stepped up a campaign to support Ms Hunt.

A man who wished to remain anonymous said he has agreed to donate 300 ‘We support Ms Hunt’ car window stickers, which are to be made available for those who sympathise with the Catherine Street pensioner.

Town councillor Leslie Cubitt said today that he would gladly stick one on his car.

“I think that the public support for this lady is overwhelming and I would be only too happy to support her in whatever way I can.

“Ms Hunt has done so much for the town and it would be ridiculous to suggest that one per cent of the development plan can hold things up, especially after planning permission has already been sought for a plan that excludes the garden.”