DIY Project advice needed

[36TEAK36]

Hi Everyone,

I have a bog standard 1930's semi, and I would like to block up the Living Room Fireplace, which has been just an empty hole for years. I have a modern electric fire that I would like to fit (the type that just hang on the wall), but I need some advice regarding blocking up the hole. I am an OK DIY'er and was thinking of fixing a baton around the inside edge of the fireplace, and then fitting something like plasterboard over the top so that it fits flush with the chiney breast wall. Then I was going to cut out a hole in the platerboard so that I can fit a vent, and then get the whole chimney breast plastered over. Next step would be to wallpaper over and then hang the new Fireplace. Can anyone see any problems with my plans? Any advice would be most welcome.

Also, does anyone have any ideas for hiding the electric cable as it will just hang down and be plugged into the socket which is at one of the chimney breast side walls. I was thinking of drilling a hole in the side wall and feed the cable through this way, but I would prefer not to do this if I can.

[Count-A-Strong]

another way would be to batten out the CB face and side and overclad with Plasterboard & skim you would then be able to route the cable for the fire via the void between wall and plasterboard.. Skirtings would need renewing but you would get a better finish.

[bookbinder]

Don't forget to have the chimney swept first, and get a bird cowl fitted to the chimney pot (you wouldn't want to have rip out all your work to remove a bird that's fallen down the chimney!).

[The Builder]

Can't see a problem there Teak. Good advice from The Count though ......... that's the way I have done this in the past. Wiring and switching for wall lights as well as sockets could be built in. Also, If you're on an outside wall, then fit insulation behind the plasterboard as well.
Bookbender is right about a bird cowl, but you'd need to incorporate a rainhood as well (special type of chimney pot) to keep water out of the flue.

[lucca]

Keep the fireplace and bring it back to life. Lovely coal /log fire on a chilly night, toasting muffins....

[36TEAK36]

Thank you all for your advice. I will probably go with the Counts advice and batten out the CB sides and face, and then get a plasterer in.