Hi wondering if anyone can help.

Just pulled a mable harth & surround from around the fireplace and found this. 

My question is what is it and can i get rid of it?? 

Many thanks

Which bit are you referring to?

 

Will it be used as a fireplace or what?

Welcome to THE forum for self builders and like minded individuals.

They grey pumice looking material might be vermiculite mixed with cement? I'm sure it can be removed.

13 hours ago, ProDave said:

Which bit are you referring to?

 

Will it be used as a fireplace or what?

The grey infill stuff it has bit of brick in to. 

I will be keeping the fireplace but boxing it out. 

Just wondering if its safe to remove myself. 

Cheers 

Yes, provided you take normal precautions against dust.

1 hour ago, Mike said:

Yes, provided you take normal precautions against dust.

Thanks very helpful much appreciated.