It was one of the lower tier authorities within the area of the Metropolitan Board of Works, which was established to provide services across the metropolis of London.

The split of powers and functions meant that the Greater London Council was responsible for "wide area" services such as fire, ambulance, flood prevention, and refuse disposal; with the boroughs (including Greenwich) responsible for "personal" services such as social care, libraries, cemeteries and refuse collection.

The authority previously faced criticism at the time of the killing, with the cabinet attending an away day immediately after the murder, therefore missing a visit by the Prime Minister.

[13] Following a campaign which saw 25,000 people sign a petition in support of the memorial the council dropped its opposition to the tribute.

It is a local education authority and is also responsible for council housing, social services, libraries, waste collection and disposal, traffic, and most roads and environmental health.

The leaders since 1965 have been:[18][19] Although named after Greenwich, the council has always had its main offices and meeting place in Woolwich.

[20] The council's main offices are at the Woolwich Centre, on the opposite side of Wellington Street from the Town Hall.