Condom “birdboxes” have been installed in “dogging hotspots” to encourage people to have safer sex... even if it’s in public.

Dogwalkers have been left horrified after spotting one of the boxes, which contains condoms and wipes, near the entrance gate of the nature reserve at Two Tree Island.

The sexual health installations come as part of a new initiative by Brook, a sexual health service, which has been contracted by Southend council.

While the service doesn’t encourage public sex, Brook has accepted it happens and is hoping to reduce the transmission of sexually transmitted infections.

Ron Sverdloff, 78, who regularly visits Two Tree Island has said he’s “dead against” the condom birdboxes.

Ron said: “I know it’s supposed to be long known for its dogging.

“I think it’s unnecessary and will end up being a waste of money.

“Most people in 2021 are aware of diseases and the problems unprotected sex can cause.

“In Two Tree Island there’s so much dog poo littered we don’t want anything else littering the ground.

"If people are having sex in public I doubt they’re bothered where they put the rubbish. I’m dead against it.”

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It’s not yet been confirmed where the other birdbox installations are in the borough.

A Brook spokesperson said: “As part of our Health Promotion Service, Brook carries out a number of different outreach initiatives to residents across the borough, including providing condoms for members of the public to encourage safer sex.

“While we do not encourage people engaging in public sex, we have to acknowledge that it takes place and will continue to do so whether or not condoms are available.

“One of our initiatives has been the installation of sexual health ‘birdboxes’ providing free condoms.

"This is a tried and tested method which already takes place all over the country, and is a key tool in reducing onward transmission of sexually transmitted infections.

“We would urge anyone with concerns regarding sexual health to contact us directly through our website.”

Cheryl Nevin, cabinet member for adult social care and health integration, said: “Southend council has recently contracted a new sexual health service through Brook Young People to provide sexual health services across the borough, tailored to meet the needs of our residents.

"We understand that they are carrying out a number of different outreach initiatives designed at reducing onward transmission of STI’s.”