Has anyone done this? Do i need i structural engineer if only raising the lintel, and widening the the gap slightly. Do i need a party wall agreement if not removing any bricks on the back of the original fireplace. Also trying to get clarity about flues off the internet. Is it best to vent up the chimney with an extractor or to an outside wall, and if going up thr chimney does it make it very expensive. Did you get thr chimney swept before commencing work ? Do building regs need to get involved? Also in terms of design , cooker hood or not and range snug into chimney breast or have space at either side for pan handles and worktop , or if you hqd to do it again, would you take whole chimney breast down. Any help appreciated as i have been told one thing by builders ie easy job no need for engineer and structural engineer , yes need it all supporting walls and joists checked. Any help appreciated