Longton Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

South Staffordshire Water supplies Longton in the West Midlands, serving Stoke-on-Trent and surrounding Staffordshire areas. The water comes from mixed sources including rivers like the Trent, local reservoirs such as Blithfield, and groundwater boreholes from Triassic sandstones. Treatment occurs at plants like Hampton Loade and Brewood, involving filtration, chlorination, and fluoridation to meet standards. Severn Trent Water also contributes to the regional supply network, blending upland surface water from Wales with local groundwater for parts of the Potteries region. The watershed encompasses the River Trent basin and adjacent groundwater catchments in Staffordshire, underlain by Triassic Sherwood Sandstone Group aquifers and interspersed limestone outcrops from the Carboniferous period.

These permeable sandstones and mudstones allow infiltration, dissolving minerals into the water and imparting a hard character. The geology shapes a moderately mineralised to hard supply, with natural calcium and magnesium levels elevated due to prolonged contact with soluble rock formations, contrasting with softer upland sources further west. The West Midlands water supply, including areas near Longton in Staffordshire, derives from a combination of surface waters and groundwater influenced by the region's Triassic sandstone aquifers and Mercia Mudstone Group formations. These geological layers, formed during the Triassic period approximately 250 million years ago, are rich in limestone and other mineral-bearing rocks.

Hard to very hard water in this area leads to limescale buildup in kettles, boilers, and showerheads, reducing efficiency and lifespan of heating systems and appliances. Dishwashers and washing machines may require more detergent, while bathroom fixtures show white deposits. Regular descaling with vinegar, installing limescale filters on taps, and servicing boilers annually help mitigate effects. A water softener is often recommended for households with hard water to prevent scaling and improve soap efficiency. Water quality meets UK standards, with pH typically 7.4 as per South Staffs data. Lead and copper levels comply with Drinking Water Inspectorate limits, aided by pipe replacement programs. No specific PFAS data noted in available reports; general contaminants like pesticides are monitored and treated via activated carbon if needed. Treatment summary includes coagulation, sand filtration, ozonation or chloramination, and UV disinfection where applicable, ensuring safe potable water.