Leeds Uses Forensic Technology to Prevent Paving Slab Thefts

DeterTech’s SmartWater™ technology is used to protect Yorkshire stone paving slabs in Bramley and Stanningley.

04:37 24 October 2023

Local authorities are using DeterTech’s SmartWater™ technology to protect Yorkshire stone paving slabs in Bramley and Stanningley from thieves. The forensic technology, which is hoped to assist West Yorkshire Police in bringing thieves to justice, is invisible to the eye but can be seen under ultraviolet light. 

The move has been made as part of efforts to protect the character of historic Leeds streets following the increase in targeted theft incidents. 

Bramley and Stanningley councillors Kevin Ritchie, Tom Hinchcliffe and Caroline Gruen said: “We welcome this measure to protect the Yorkshire stone paving in the Warrels area of Bramley. It is an attractive residential area, with heritage value and a great asset to the community.

“It is quite disgraceful that there have been attempts to steal these flagstones in the past. Now, the use of SmartWater will both act as a deterrent and assist the police in arresting any perpetrators.”