Swanley lies at the northernmost point of the area of Sevenoaks District Council and also within the administrative area of Kent County Council. Swanley Town Council came into existence in 1974 and though unlike the County and District Council, it has few statutory duties (things that have to be done) it does have many powers (things that can be done). The Town Council seeks to exercise its powers for the benefit of the community of Swanley and Swanley Village. There are four wards in the town, which are Christchurch, St Marys and Whiteoak wards in Swanley as well a ward in Swanley Village, see Councillors and Wards for more information. The Town Council owns around 150 acres of parks and open spaces, including the principal parks of Swanley Park and St Marys Recreation. Swanley Town Council provides a variety of recreation, social and other facilities for the benefit of residents and people who work in and visit the Parish area, working in partnership with other Councils and agencies to promote and deliver local services.