Accessing loft area of 1990s extension

[Sukhe_Bator]

My 1930's 3 bed semi was extended in the 1990s before I moved in. The old roof structure on the extended side has been left in place meaning I can't access the new loft space without painfully squeezing between the rafters. I need to access that part of the loft for maintenance and additional storage space. Can I safely remove one of the now redundant rafters below the level of the purlin to create a basic access hole?

 

[tony1851]

Yes, because it won't be serving any critical structural function now.

 

[Sukhe_Bator]

I thought that might be the case but I'm very grateful for the confirmation