The homesfirst.scot website includes a simple form which allows local residents to express concern where a whole property is no longer anyone’s permanent home and instead used for short-term lets.

An interactive map will chart the locations to give users a better idea about where such properties are concentrated.

The Lothians MSP has campaigned for greater regulation of the properties, which can cause distress for local residents and a lack of affordable housing where concentrations exist.

Andy Wightman

After failing to back Mr Wightman’s amendments to the Planning Bill last year, the Scottish Government announced a licensing scheme earlier this month.

Mr Wightman said: “The growth in short-term lets is out of control in Edinburgh and of increasing concern across Scotland. The Scottish Government’s movement towards licensing is welcome but we still don’t have a clear picture of how many former homes have been given over to commercial purpose, and where they are concentrated. This tool will help us better understand the scale of the problem.”