Widening a fireplace - is one side structural?

[Blinkymouse]

Hi

I Have taken off all the plaster around my chimney as I want to widen the opening.

But now I am confused by the brick pattern. In the pic the bricks on the right show two rows of half bricks - so my question is are these interlocked and structural? The chimney curves off to the left above the fireplace.

Can I widen this chimney or not? I'm not convinced I can so may have to get a pro in... Any help much appreciated!

Thanks

Untitled

• Blinkymouse
• 23 Nov 2014
• 1

 

[tony1851]

Above the opening is the concrete lintel. You should be able to widen the opening to no nearer than 4" from each end of the lintel.