Needle finds in Peterborough decrease by over 80 per cent in a year
There are currently 13 needle bins located throughout the city
The streets of Peterborough have seen a dramatic reduction in the number of discarded drug needles over a 12-month period.
Between April and June 2026, 173 needles were found across the city compared to 1,066 in the same period the previous year.
The decrease is observed across several wards, notably North, East, and Fletton and Woodston.
In North Ward, 97 needles were recorded compared to 372 last year.
East saw a reduction to nine from 85 and Fletton dropped to four from 138.
Barnack had no reported needle finds during April to June 2026, whereas 210 needles were discovered there in the same quarter of 2025.
The 83.7 per cent decrease is attributed to various strategies including the use of needle bins around the city.
Between October 2019 and June 2026, 2,919 needles have been deposited into these bins, mitigating the risk of them being discarded on the streets.
Efforts with pharmacies to distribute sharps containers, enabling safe disposal of needles and drug paraphernalia, have also contributed to the decline.
Councillor Ann Shaheed, Cabinet Member for Public Health, Homelessness and Poverty, praised the reduction:
"I'm delighted that the number of needles being found has decreased so substantially and would like to thank our officers and partners for their tireless work to tackle this issue which is a problem affecting many towns and cities."
"Our needle bins continue to be well-used preventing dangerous drugs paraphernalia from ending up on the streets, potentially coming into contact with children or vulnerable residents."
The council continues to collaborate with Cambridgeshire Police, the drugs support group Aspire, and local campaigners to tackle the issue.
Residents are reminded that 13 needle bins are located throughout the city, managed by Aragon Direct Services, the council's waste contractor.
People in Peterborough are encouraged to report any needle finds to the council, but they should not pick up any drugs paraphernalia they encounter.
Discovered needles can be reported by calling 01733 747474 or online at www.peterborough.gov.uk .
Further details on needle bins in Peterborough, including their locations and advice on drug misuse, are available on the council's website.