Final site enabling works are being completed this month with a start on the main scheme now confirmed for January.

The job stalled back in 2008 but will now create 1,500 construction jobs and open for Christmas 2015.

Westfield has also sold its interest in the scheme to European retail real estate investment manager Meyer Bergman with the backing of two Canadian pension funds.

Meyer Bergman has appointed Westfield to develop, design, construct and lease the project.

The 570,000 sq ft shopping centre will feature a 106,000 sq ft Debenhams department store and a 63,000 sq ft Marks & Spencer as anchor retailers, along with 70 additional shops, restaurants and cafes, including major high street retailers Next, River Island, Topshop, Topman and Sainsbury’s.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “Projects like these stand as a great example to others to show that the regional growth fund has been used to attract the necessary private sector investment to deliver significant and positive change in our cities.

Michael Gutman, Westfield Managing Director UK/Europe and New Markets said: “Westfield is delighted to announce the start of construction having remained steadfastly committed to delivering the Bradford development following cessation of work in 2008 as a result of the global financial crisis.

“Westfield has worked intensively with Bradford Council, the Government and Meyer Bergman to attract new retailers, create new jobs and ensure that this development is built for the city and the people of Bradford.”