A dispute has broken out between property developer Sean Dunne and Kevin Warren, the specialist in building property consortiums.

The disagreement relates to the Whitewater shopping centre development in Newbridge, Co Kildare. Whitewater was developed as a joint venture between Mr Dunne's Mountbrook Homes and Sean Mulryan's Ballymore Homes.

Earlier this year, Mr Dunne was in negotiations with Mr Warren to sell his holding in the development for a sum believed to have been in the region of €200 million.

Mr Dunne argues that no final sale agreement was concluded and is taking a case against Mr Warren to force the financier to state that this is the case. Mr Dunne is also seeking damages from Mr Warren.

The developer's claim is likely to be heard in the Commercial Court.

Mr Warren, on the other hand, is expected to lodge a counter-claim against Mr Dunne to the effect that a contract is in place and should be honoured.

Mr Warren declined to comment on the matter when contacted last night.

Whitewater is situated on the site of the former Irish Ropes complex in Newbridge. The largest shopping centre outside Dublin, the development has attracted tenants including Debenhams, Marks & Spencer, River Island, Zara and H&M. It is due to open next Easter.