Leeds City Council Deploys SelectaDNA to Protect Historic York Stone

Leeds City Council Deploys SelectaDNA to Protect Historic York Stone 

Leeds City Council has launched a new initiative to protect the city’s historic York stone paving by deploying advanced forensic marking technology across high‑risk areas. The move aims to deter theft, safeguard public spaces, and reduce the growing financial pressures caused by replacing stolen paving. 

York stone, a premium sandstone quarried in Yorkshire since medieval times, is prized for its durability and distinctive appearance. Its high market value - often hundreds of pounds per square metre - has made it a frequent target for thieves. In Leeds, the stone forms a key part of the city’s historic streetscape, particularly in older neighbourhoods where maintaining heritage character is a priority for the Council. 

The theft of York stone places a heavy financial burden on Leeds taxpayers, costing tens of thousands of pounds every year. Beyond the cost, these incidents create unnecessary safety hazards and damage the historic fabric of the city’s pathways and public spaces. 

A proactive solution to deter stone theft 

To tackle this issue, the Council has partnered with SelectaDNA, a global leader in forensic marking technology, to apply their uniquely coded security solutions in two wards identified as high‑risk. Working alongside the Council’s Highways & Transportation team, the initiative will help protect valuable assets and ensure that funds usually spent on repairs can be redirected towards essential services and strategic priorities. 

SelectaDNA technology offers unique DNA coding, enabling police to trace stolen materials back to their original location and link offenders to crime scenes. The solution - designed specifically for metals, stone and outdoor equipment - provides a strong deterrent and is widely used across sectors vulnerable to material theft, including utilities, rail networks, heritage sites and construction. 

Proven theft deterrent for heritage protection 

The approach has already proven successful in similar heritage protection projects elsewhere in the country, with West Yorkshire Police achieving 87.5% reduction in stone theft as part of a project with SelectaDNA.  

In Kent, SelectaDNA was used to safeguard valuable Kentish Ragstones forming an 18th‑century historic wall after several stones were stolen. The remaining stones were invisibly marked with microdots that allow police to trace any recovered material back to its original site. Local councillors reported 100% reduction in thefts, noting that clear warning signage and forensic marking helped prevent further theft. 

Ongoing crime prevention support from SelectaDNA 

As part of the initiative, specially trained SelectaDNA search dogs - developed in partnership with Search Dogs UK - may support policing activity. These dogs are uniquely trained to detect SelectaDNA forensic markers on property, equipment and even suspects, improving the chances of identifying stolen materials that may not be visible to the human eye. They have previously assisted policing operations across the UK, contributing to arrests, asset recovery and the disruption of criminal activity. 

Leeds City Council spokesperson said: 

 “York stone is a defining feature of our city’s heritage, and we are committed to protecting it. This partnership sends a clear message that theft will not be tolerated and ensures we can focus resources where they are needed most.” 

Want to hear more about how SelectaDNA could protect you? Get in touch by emailing [email protected] or by calling 01689 860757.