Utrecht to ban laughing gas in specific areas

Political leaders in Utrecht have introduced a plan to ban laughing gas in five specific areas, according to broadcaster RTV Utrecht. The drug will also be prohibited at festivals and public events if the plan from the mayor and alderpersons is approved by city council.

The proposal targets neighborhoods where use of the gas is seen as excessive and a source of irritation for community workers. It includes Kanaleneiland-Noord, Lombok-Oost, Overvecht Zuid, Wesley Sneijderpark, and Zambesidreefbuurt, wrote AD.

The use of laughing gas in public often leads to rubbish left on the street, specifically the empty metal cartridges used to contain the gas. Littering contributed to half of complaints filed with the city about use of the drug, the broadcaster said.

Other complaints were about noise, rowdy youth, loitering, and drug-addled behavioral issues.

The ban would last for one year if the Utrecht city council approves it, wrote AD.