Douglas St business owners jointly named Cork Persons of the Month

Florist Justine Looney and pub owner Edel Curtin were recognised this month for their work as both 'business leaders and community activists' in the Douglas St area

Justine Looney and Edel Curtin were recognised this month for their work as both 'business leaders and community activists' in the Douglas St area.  Picture: Vitaliy Makhnanov

Two business proprietors involved in the rejuvenation of one of Cork City's busy streets have been jointly awarded the Cork Person of the Month award. 

Justine Looney and Edel Curtin were recognised this month for their work as both "business leaders and community activists" in the Douglas St area. 

Ms Looney, who co-owns Cork Flower Studio, is described as a "pioneer" in the move towards a "more sustainable floristry industry in Ireland". 

Cork Person of the Year organisers said her character was "innovative, ingenious and ethical" due to her introduction of a deposit return scheme for flowers purchased in vases

The studio has also seen the introduction of a storefront, which doubles up as a mini-garden, as well as a 2GoCup-only policy in the studio's coffee bar. 

Ms Looney is also involved in the development of The Ronnie Herlihy Garden on Langford Row and is working on the creation of another garden at Summerhill South at the junction between Douglas St and High St. 

Co-recipient of the award, Coughlans Bar proprietor Edel Curtin, has been described as the "driving force" behind the bar's success for over 13 years. 

Ms Curtin has been described as creating both a "welcoming and intimate atmosphere for both local and touring musicians, fostering a rich tapestry of musical experiences across a variety of genres". 

The 200-year-old venue is now known as a "destination for music", and has seen previous performances from Glen Hansard, Mick Flannery, Lisa Hannigan, and Walking on Cars. 

"A resident of Douglas St, Edel’s role in rejuvenating Coughlans played no small part in the revitalisation of the street itself, and she takes an active role in business and community matters in the area," organisers said. 

Ms Looney and Ms Curtin's names will now be forwarded for consideration alongside the other monthly winners for Cork Person of the Year, which will be announced at the awards lunch next January.