Stop thief – Leeds City Council trials latest York stone theft deterrent technology

Leeds City Council has started trials of a new type of marking system to deter the theft of York stone paving slabs across the city.

Watch: Councillor Jonthan Pryor speaking about the DNA marking trials

York stone, a Yorkshire sandstone that is prized for its hard-wearing nature, forms a key part of the city’s historic streetscape, particularly in older neighbourhoods where maintaining heritage character is a key priority.

Above: One of the many distinctive York stone pavements in Leeds (Picture: Leeds City Council)

The York stone is a frequent target for thieves, damaging the historic character of the city and creating unnecessary safety hazards to pathways and public spaces.

The SelectaDNA marking system, being trialled, uses a unique location-specific forensic DNA and metal microdot technology to allow stolen stone to be easily identified using basic UV lights or microscopes.

Tracker dogs that are specially trained to detect the invisible forensic markers on property, equipment and even suspects can further improve the chances of identifying stolen materials and perpetrators.

Above: The new DNA microdot technology is easily applied using a spray can.  (Picture: Leeds City Council)

Applied quickly and easily by an aerosol burst, this new technology is designed specifically for metals, stone, and outdoor equipment. The DNA microdots do not deteriorate over time, offering lifelong protection, and once dry, they do not transfer onto footwear or clothing through normal use.

The forensic DNA approach to protecting York stone has proven successful in other areas where it has been deployed, with results showing a significant reduction in stone theft. Stolen stone has also been traced, recovered, and returned to its original location using the system.

Clear signage warning that the stone is forensically marked has also helped to reduce occurrences of theft in other areas, which Leeds City Council will be putting in place.

Above: Councillor Jonathan Pryor with the SelectaDNA spray can and warning sign.  (Picture: Leeds City Council)

Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Jonathan Pryor, said: “We know that theft of York stone has been a huge problem in Leeds for many years, placing an extra burden on Leeds taxpayers, damaging our communities, and putting people at risk.

“By trialling this quick and easy method of DNA marking, we can hopefully offer a new level of protection to our York stone assets and deter those people who see our history, heritage, and communities as an easy target for their illegal and dangerous activities.

“I look forward to seeing the outcome of this trial and potentially rolling the scheme out across the city to protect more community assets.”

Ends

Notes for editors

Headline photo caption: Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Jonathan Pryor, applies Selecta DNA to a York stone footpath in Leeds.