Number of Yorkshire stone thefts in Leeds revealed as council turns to DNA technology to catch thieves

Dozens of reports of Yorkshire stone thefts were recorded in Leeds in just a year, new figures show.

The thefts prompted Leeds City Council to set up specialist DNA marking techniques earlier this year.

The marking system aims to deter thefts of the stone slabs, which form a key part of the city’s distinctive landscape.

But it can be prized as a target for thieves, with the council revealing 24 reports of thefts were recorded last year.

“York stone forms an important part of the city, particularly in many of our older neighbourhoods and heritage areas,” a council spokesperson said.

“It is a distinctive Yorkshire sandstone that has been used across Leeds for generations and makes a significant contribution to the character and appearance of our streets and public spaces.

“Unfortunately, it is also a target for theft,” they added. “Last year, we received 24 reports of stolen York stone across the city.

“These incidents not only result in the loss of valuable public assets, but the missing slabs can create trip hazards requiring urgent repair work.

“This creates an additional financial burden with the cost of repairs and replacement.”

Earlier this year, the council announced a trial of forensic DNA marking technology, aimed at deterring thieves as it assists police in tracking stolen materials.

The SelectaDNA system uses metal microdot technology to track stone with UV lights or microscopes, and with tracker dogs trained to detect the invisible markers.

It can be sprayed on using an aerosol.

“By protecting York stone paving, we are helping to preserve an important part of Leeds’s heritage for future generations, while also reducing avoidable maintenance costs and preserving the quality and appearance of the public realm,” the spokesperson said.

Other damage at heritage sites across Yorkshire according to the FOI findings are documented below:

• There was damage to exhibits at the Street Life Museum of Transport in Hull in 2024
• At the Maritime Museum, someone smashed the windows using a chain. Then more smashed windows – this time from a group of youths – at the Fishing Heritage Centre.
• Another burglary was attempted at Sewerby Hall and Gardens in 2024. Suspects smashed a window on an upper floor before prising open another. They failed to gain entry and fled.
• Leaded windows in a Grade I-listed building, smashed. Metal fence railings, knocked out, and a listed building spray painted. Then there is damage to stone work, with youths in Hull climbing on a museum’s roof.
• Stealing coping stones. A fireplace tool. Metal detecting, illegally, at a licensed monument in Stamford Bridge. The famous battle here saw the end of the Viking age.