Andy Burnham, the Prime Minister, championed build-to-rent projects across Manchester for several years - Annabel Lee-Ellis/PA/APConstruction of rental homes has plunged to a 12-year low amid fears regarding Andy Burnham's property tax plans. Just 3,455 build-to-rent projects started between April and June this year, down 80pc on the same period last year, hitting the lowest level since 2014, new figures showed. She said: "The speculation around proportional property tax or land value tax has also been unhelpful and has had similar effects to the speculation around rent controls." The Government has sought to clarify its policy on rent controls, with Angela Rayner ruling them out and officials signalling wider property tax reform is not imminent. Mr Burnham himself has championed build-to-rent projects across Manchester for several years, providing financial backing to major rental housing skyscrapers across the city.