ºÃÉ«ÏÈÉúTV

Multiplex's lawyers have fired the opening salvoes in its Wembley legal battle with steel contractor Cleveland Bridge.

Roger Stewart, Multiplex's lawyer, has dramatically claimed that Cleveland Bridge (CBUK) is still continuing its "Project Trafalgar" scheme to undermine Multiplex.

Stewart said that: "We have a concern that CBUK is trying to use these proceedings for ulterior purposes and put illegitimate pressure on Multiplex."

The claim relates to a legal claim against Multiplex in Australia by some of its shareholders.

Stewart also disputed the facts of CBUK's statement, calling it a "dodgy dossier". The statement should contain the undisputed facts of the case, and then present the individual's case.

He said of CBUK's facts: "Much is highly contentious, large parts are highly irrelevant."

The case, expected to last four weeks, is being heard by Mr Justice Jackson in the Technology and Construction Court in London. It involves a blame game over who was responsible for the steel arch not going up until 2004, months over deadline.

In what is being billed as the construction industry's highest profile legal dispute in years, Multiplex is seeking £45m in damages against the steel company that built and erected the landmark steel arch. The Darlington-based subcontractor is countersuing for about £25m.

Cleveland Bridge claims the concrete in the foundations was too weak and had to be relaid, adding extra time. Multiplex blames CB for the delay, claiming it was forced to pay other subcontractors extra because they could not proceed with their jobs.

The hearing will involve claims that Multiplex hatched "the Armageddon Plan" to "f**k" the steel specialist.

Multiplex is still considering suing Wembley National Stadium Limited, the venue's owner, for £150m, arguing it was the cause of many of the scheme's problems along the way.

The case continues.