Market Drayton Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Severn Trent Water supplies Market Drayton, a town in Shropshire, with a mixed water source. This supply combines groundwater drawn from the Triassic sandstone aquifer with surface water from the River Tern and local reservoirs like Tittensor or Drayton. Treatment is carried out at the Market Drayton Water Treatment Works, which ensures the water is filtered, disinfected, and fluoridated for the town's roughly 12,000 residents and nearby rural areas. The watershed is part of the Tern catchment within the Severn River Basin, characterized by Permo-Triassic sandstone aquifers and mudstone formations.

The region's geology features the Triassic Sherwood Sandstone Group, a porous formation from the Triassic period. As rainwater percolates through this sandstone, it dissolves significant amounts of calcium and magnesium ions from the mineral-rich rock. This process, influenced by overlying Mercia Mudstone Group clays, results in a characteristically hard water supply for Market Drayton. The limestone-influenced sandstone bedrock is the primary reason for the elevated mineral content observed in the local water.

This moderately hard water can lead to noticeable limescale buildup in appliances such as kettles, boilers, and showerheads, which reduces their efficiency and necessitates more frequent cleaning. Homeowners might also observe soap scum in dishwashers and experience fabric stiffness after washing clothes. To combat these issues, regular descaling with vinegar, installing tap filters, and using rinse aids are practical steps. Many households find that installing a water softener significantly extends the lifespan of their appliances and improves cleaning effectiveness. Severn Trent Water ensures the water meets stringent quality standards, with pH levels generally between 7.0 and 8.0.