Dozens of thefts of Yorkshire stone reported in Leeds in just one year, records show
Dozens of reports of Yorkshire stone thefts were recorded in Leeds in just one year, prompting the city council to set up specialist DNA marking techniques.
The marking system is aimed at deterring the thefts of the stone slabs, which forms a key part of the city’s distinctive landscape.
But it can be prized as a target for thieves, with Leeds City Council (LCC) 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 spokesperson for LCC 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, LCC 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.
North Yorkshire’s findings detail reports by crime area. York has the highest concentration, perhaps unsurprisingly as it has the highest population, with 100 heritage crimes recorded. Scarborough and Harrogate also feature heavily though, with more than 50 crimes reported in each of these districts over the 28 months.
In South Yorkshire, there were three burglaries reported at museums or art galleries in 2025. Almost all of the reports, though, centre around churches of some kind.
Of 92 heritage crimes recorded in South Yorkshire, an incredible 87 per cent were at places of worship. This included 48 reports of arson or criminal damage, 22 of burglary and 10 of theft.
The findings are not comparable across force areas, as each team uses different metrics to analyse the figures. They are, however, a snapshot reflection of reporting.