The original aim was to begin construction on the project in late 2014 or early 2015, but the planning process has significantly delayed the timescale.

But now the Transport Secretary has issued a Transport and Works Act  Order, with minor modifications, that paves the way to link Victoria, Oxford Road and Piccadilly stations for the first time.

Network Rail has been working on the designs of the scheme with a joint venture between Skanska and Bam Nuttall under an ECI arrangement.

The 340m long viaduct will join the Bolton line with the Chat Moss line, crossing the Irwell on a new bridge.

The go-ahead for the scheme, which follows a detailed enquiry, will see the compulsory purchase and demolition of homes close to the route, once a works contract is formally signed to meet planning requirements.

Martin Frobisher, route managing director for Network Rail, said: “The investment going into the railway in the north will bring huge benefits.

“The Northern Hub project will see more trains, faster and better journeys for millions of people and the Ordsall Chord is a vital part of the overall scheme.

“Network Rail welcomes the decision by the Secretary of State. We will now look at the timescales needed to deliver the project and work with our stakeholders and the community so passengers and the economy can benefit from the investment as quickly as possible.”