Conference Success Hailed

The impact of an international science conference in Dundee is being hailed, as plans are progressing to attract similar gatherings in the future. 

The 37th European Cetacean Society (ECS) Conference generated more than £1.6 million in Direct Expenditure Benefit (DEB) for Dundee and the wider region. 

Nearly 800 marine mammal scientists, students, conservation practitioners, policymakers, regulators, NGOs, industry representatives and technology developers travelled to the city from around the globe for the five-day event in April. 

Organisers are praising the Dundee ‘Conference Village’ model, highlighting that travel hubs, accommodation and venues are within walking distance maximising the time delegates can spend attending sessions, networking and building professional relationships. 

Dundee City Council convener of City Growth and Infrastructure Cllr Steven Rome said: “I am delighted to hear the testimonies of those who organised this major conference and the advantages that Dundee offered and delivered. ECS2026 delivered a significant economic boost that would have helped many local businesses.  

"The Dundee Conference Village model showcases the city’s compact nature as a real asset for conference organisers. Developed by the Convention Bureau and partners across the city, it was successfully brought to life through ECS 2026, highlighting the power of Dundee’s excellent facilities, connectivity and collaborative spirit.    

“We are pleased to be sharing this proven model with other organisations looking to deliver exceptional conferences in Dundee.”  

For the ECS committee, Dundee offered the ideal balance of accessibility, affordability and capacity. The city's compact layout, strong transport links, accommodation offer and waterfront location were also highlighted. 

The ECS conference, held at the Livehouse venue, provided the scale and flexibility required for plenary sessions, poster displays, exhibitions, catering, accessibility requirements and social activities.   

Nine additional city-centre venues hosted specialist workshops and networking events, allowing delegates to experience the city as an integral part of the conference. 

Dr Carol Sparling said: "Bringing almost 800 delegates from 46 countries to the city was a major undertaking, but the combination of strong local support, a committed organising team and Dundee's compact, welcoming character helped make the conference a real success.  

"Dundee gave the conference a distinctive identity and created a strong sense of community across the week. 

"The connected nature of the city created a conference experience that felt welcoming, collaborative and memorable, demonstrating how a compact destination can enhance both event delivery and delegate engagement." 

The success of ECS was underpinned by strong collaboration between the organising committee, Dundee City Region Convention Bureau, Livehouse, local partners, sponsors, exhibitors and volunteers.  

From the earliest stages of planning through to delivery, Dundee City Region Convention Bureau, who are part of Dundee City Council's City Promotion team, supported the organisers with venue sourcing, accommodation information, delegate communications and destination promotion, helping international delegates plan their visit and make the most of their time in Dundee.