I saw Jack Pearson this Morning and he said that there was indeed a Working Fireplace under the Window in the front bar, the flue did slope off to the left! I'm not sure if its blocked off now, but if i go in soon i'll check.
Regarding the name change, he hadn't heard anything as yet, but the name has been taken down at the moment, and as i said, my friend went in there last Friday and asked about this, and was told they are changing the name. Yet strangely the Arden Inn sign on the side elevation has been painted Black at the same time as the other paintwork so not sure why they would have painted this, if it was going to be replaced.
If i get chance to pop in on Saturday before i go to The Sydney Street club i will, but there's a really good "Turn" on so i might go early to the club!
Best Regards - Taggy