However, the SAS's preferred site, next to the Melrose bypass and at the entrance to the BGH, was thrown out by councillors.

BBC: Borders General Hospital ambulance base bid goes to appeal

"At the moment the BGH is very centrally situated to serve a very far-flung Borders area, " she said.

BBC: Borders hydrotherapy pool move disappoints patient group

"Since the previous HEI report issued in 2011, it is clear that further progress has been made within the BGH and we are continuing to improve our policies and practices, " he added.

BBC: Borders General Hospital inspection finds improvements

In 2010, the HEI identified 13 requirements and four recommendations to improve services at the BGH.

BBC: Borders General Hospital inspection finds improvements

The health board said the exception at Borders General Hospital was due to the "unique size of the BGH grounds".

BBC: NHS board bans smoking in grounds

However, she said that since the decision appeared to have been made, she hoped NHS Borders would give an assurance that the BGH pool would not close until the new one was open.

BBC: Borders hydrotherapy pool move disappoints patient group