Geograph - photograph every grid square

The iron industry thrived in the Weald of Kent, Sussex & Surrey from Pre-Roman times until the Industrial revolution. The industry was based on Iron ore from the Cretaceous rocks of the area and charcoal from the woodlands. The remains of the industry can still be seen in the many Hammer ponds in the area and woodland names such as Furnace, Minepit etc. The use of coal not charcoal saw the demise of the industry.
Wikipedia: Link

Coppicing is a management technique of cutting trees and shrubs to ground level allowing vigorous regrowth and a sustainable supply of timber for future generations.
Trees and shrubs that are cut down in this way can produce shoots that grow over 30cm in a week.
The benefits of coppicing are varied, including promoting ground vegetation (by letting light in), raw materials for thatching, fencing, kindling and charcoal making. Also coppiced trees live longer than non coppiced trees. All trees can be coppiced, but hazel, ash, lime and beech are common.