Health board warns of disruption at Knoll Hospital site in Duns following fire
Last updated 2 hours ago
Patients with outpatient appointments at the Knoll Hospital site in Duns are being advised not to attend following a fire.
NHS Borders is praising the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service for its "swift and professional response" to the incident, which unfolded earlier today.
The health board is reporting all patients, staff and contractors who were on site at the time are safe and accounted for, and there have been no reported injuries.
But it warns outpatient clinic services will be disrupted while a full assessment of the building and any damage is carried out.
A spokesperson said: "Our teams are working to contact affected patients directly regarding their appointments, and we ask patients with outpatient clinic appointments not to attend the site unless they have been specifically advised to do so.
"GP appointments at the Merse Medical Practice will operate as normal tomorrow."
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Earlier this month, we reported the temporary closure of the Knoll Hospital and Health Centre in Duns had been extended.
NHS Borders revealed remedial works to address issues with RAAC - a dangerous concrete which is prone to collapse - have taken longer than expected.
It had initially been thought the site would only be closed for around six months, after patients were moved in February last year.
The health board estimated the Health Centre would reopen in late August, with the inpatient area facing similar delays while refurbishment plans are finalised.
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It's unclear whether the work is linked to the fire. A further update is expected on Thursday.
The health board added: "The safety of our patients and staff remains our highest priority.
"We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our local community while we assess the situation and make arrangements to restore services as quickly as possible."
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