A new bus service was launched earlier this week, linking Hawick, Lilliesleaf, Midlem and Selkirk to Borders General Hospital in Melrose.
The service 44, funded by SEStran and operated by our in-house fleet, commenced on Monday 6 July 2026 and will run on a pilot basis until 31 March 2027. The service will operate via Lilliesleaf, Midlem, and Selkirk, delivering 11 daily journeys, including peak-time provision to support a range of travel needs.
The proposal has been developed in response to identified gaps in connectivity to Borders General Hospital and will reinstate a direct link for communities previously served by the Selkirk Taxi bus.
The service also supports improved access to employment and aims to better accommodate staff and visitor travel requirements.
The new service will be monitored closely during the first four weeks of operation, with engagement planned with NHS Borders to assess whether timetable adjustments are required to better align with shift patterns.
Councillor Jenny Linehan, Executive Member for Environment, Sustainability and Transport:
“It is great to see the new service 44 launched this week, which will provide an important direct link for these communities and support a range of travel needs to residents.”
Find more information on the new service 44 and other bus routes on our timetables webpages.