My read of this is that it related to the area of sensitivity,...

My read of this is that it related to the area of sensitivity, which applies to both proposals and so the condition would still apply. I would expect that the condition wouldn't reset and require an additional approval for the optimised solution. So nothing changes really, just need that optimised approval to conclude the final cost to complete construction and get started on the northern sections of the job.

Easy to be critical of those responsible for approving these things, but they do important work in protecting from inappropriate development - they also (generally) like to clear the decks prior to taking holidays over the christmas period so hopefully we'll see some movement on it soon.