Here are the business stories making the headlines across Scotland and the UK this morning
Fresh hope in battle to stop region becoming ‘swamped’ with turbines
Communities in the Highlands have fresh wind in their sails as new legislation seeks to combat rampant renewable developers.
In a first for Scottish councils, the plans seek to stop wind farm planners running riot while communities struggle to keep pace.
A total of 62 community councils across the Highlands joined together in support of action as they struggle to keep up with the cascades of applications on their doorstep.
The project seeks to streamline the application process, making it easier for the public to see and scrutinise any new developments via a new website.
Read the full story in the P&J.
Aberdeen 2025 cruise season to be extended as more ships to visit city
Aberdeen’s cruise ship season is to be extended next year as the city welcomes more maiden ships.
Harbour bosses have confirmed it will be a “slightly extended” season with calls starting in early April and continuing until October.
The number of ships expected to dock in South Harbour is also set to reach up to 70 – an increase from 49 recorded this year.
Mike Ashley tells Boohoo to make him chief executive
The retail tycoon Mike Ashley has launched a bold attempt to become chief executive of Boohoo as he pushes for a possible merger between the troubled fast-fashion retailer and its rival Asos.
The proposal by Ashley’s Frasers Group would reshape the online fashion retail landscape, aiming to consolidate two of the UK’s biggest digital players while expanding his influence over the industry.
The group behind Sports Direct, House of Fraser and Flannels, which has a significant stake in both Boohoo and Asos, is thought to see value in combining Asos’s access to brands with Boohoo’s appeal to a younger demographic.
Read the full story here.
Pub garden smoking ban to be dropped over fears of job losses
No 10 and ministers are backing away from plans to ban smoking in public spaces in response to fears that it will cause “serious economic harm” to the hospitality industry.
Downing Street is said to have significant concerns about the policy after warnings that it could lead to job losses and pub closures.
The Times disclosed last month that Wes Streeting, the health secretary, was having second thoughts about the policy, saying he would not go ahead with the ban unless voters want it.