Campaigners have called on NHS Borders to issue a timescale for the delivery of new hydrotherapy facilities to replace those at the BGH.
It follows a pledge from NHS Borders chairman John Raine who has said he will do all he can to retain the BGH hydrotherapy pool, earmarked for closure in a revamp of the hospital’s outpatient department, until a replacement is ready.
NHS Borders wants hydrotherapy provided from a specialist pool still to be built at Jedburgh, with local swimming pools delivering water-based exercise sessions.
But it all hinges on NHS Borders obtaining funding to finish the outpatient scheme and on Jedburgh Leisure Facilities Trust gaining planning consent and funding.
Borders Patient Action Group was “delighted” with Mr Raine’s pledge, but added: “We worry his control of events may not deliver a hydrotherapy service to match the excellence of the one NHS Borders is abandoning.
“We are concerned the interval between the closure of the BGH pool and opening of a new facility in Jedburgh could leave patients without hydrotherapy for an extended period.
“A timescale from NHS Borders would be much welcomed by the general public.”
Jedburgh pool trustee, George Burt, says hydrotherapy facilities are definitely part of its plans, but do not as yet have funding or planning permission.
“The first thing we want, hopefully done this year, is new changing facilities,” he said.