Safe to remove Fireplace internal bricks ?

[The Bully3006]

Hi. I’ve started to open up my living room fireplace and have come across some internal bricks that appear to reduce the size of the opening. Are they safe to remove or are they there as support ? My pic shows the lintel being supported by the more external bricks. Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[ree]

OP,
Whats your purpose - do you intend to install an appliance?
Why not post a pic showing the width and height of the chimney breast?

 

[The Bully3006]

Hiya. Hoping to get a log burner installed. Width of larger opening 840mm, height 940mm ( though would like to reduce height by 100mm. Thanks

 

[ree]

OP,
Pic of the chimney breast not the opening?
You will need to install to the burner MFR's installation dimensions. So dont do anything until you have the dimensions at hand.
I guess you understand that there's a whole rake of pre-conditions & Regs ref installing a burner?
When ready, its a simple matter to move the lintel - the "internal bricks" will need further investigation?

 

[Dereekoo]

Only you can ascertain if they are supporting anything, get your hand up there and feel for a gap above them. for what its worth they look like bricks placed in an old fire place opening to reduce the size to take a new sized fireplace