Cambridge residents outraged by huge number of 'laughing gas' canisters left on Chesterton road
One local said that Nuffield Road has become a "playground" to the drug users
Lottie Limb
Updated 12:15, 1 FEB 2021
The canisters were dumped on Nuffield Road in Chesterton
A mess of 'laughing gas' canisters left on a Cambridge road has caused outrage among residents.
Residents discovered hundreds of the little silver canisters dumped on Nuffield Road in Chesterton today (January 31).
The 'cream charger' capsules contain nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, which is used recreationally by people to get a high.
It appears this is not the first time it has happened. One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "It's just so disappointing to see this mess every week."
He said those responsible "treat the Nuffield Road Industrial area like a playground.
"They gather in their vehicles, smoke weed and inhale balloons to get high. You can see these little gas canisters all over Chesterton."
Since photos of the cluttered canisters were posted to a local Facebook group, more than 70 residents have commented to air their frustration at the anti-social behaviour.
Some have pointed out the dangers of nitrous oxide, which can cause users to fall unconscious or suffocate from a lack of oxygen.
Repeated heavy use can also lead to a B12 deficiency, causing anaemia and severe nerve damage.
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Although most residents were angry at the litterers, Chesterton resident Mikey La Vell said: "I'm not condoning this. But shedding some light on why this might be happening.
"These kids have nothing to do in the evenings; pubs, clubs, community centres are all closed. They can't go to each other's houses. They're bored and trying to entertain themselves during lockdown"
Others called for an increased police presence in the area.