Peterborough City Council has committed to tackling the misuse of nitrous oxide, a gas classified as a Class C drug in 2023. The decision follows an increase in discarded canisters observed by local law enforcement.
Cambridgeshire Police reported disposing of 972 canisters in the past 12 months, noting a rise in larger discarded units. In response, city councillors unanimously passed a motion to implement public education campaigns and enforcement measures.
The campaign will highlight the health risks and legal consequences associated with nitrous oxide possession and supply. Council officers are also tasked with engaging local retailers who legitimately sell the gas to promote responsible practices. These practices include staff awareness, age verification where appropriate, refusing suspicious sales, and maintaining records of commercial purchases.
Councilor Hussain, representing the Dogsthorpe ward, called for collaboration between the council, police, licensing teams, and community groups to deliver the awareness campaign. He also urged the council leader to lobby the government for stronger national measures to curb illegal supply and use.
Nitrous oxide is a colorless gas with legitimate uses in medicine, dentistry, and the catering industry. Its classification as a Class C drug in 2023 reflects concerns over its misuse.