PCA, that's probably a wise, though very hard decision to make. You really should have a budget so that you can do the 45 hours, including instruction and everything, within a timeframe of one year. If needed, save up beforehand. But stretching the PPL course over a longer timeframe means that you are spending too much time picking up where you left off previously.
One tip: try to remain listed as a student at your club, even if you only fly once every three months or so. Clubs, in addition to lessons, typically organise other events for students as well, and it might be a very good idea to participate in these events. At the very least, it ensures that you get to know people who might just give you a ride in the RHS for (virtually) free.
And pay attention to the fact that your ground exams have a limited lifespan. I think it's 36 months: from the time you do the exam to the time you do the skills test. If you're going to sit on your hands now for a full year, while saving up money, and then spend a year obtaining the PPL, your current air law exam is probably going to be toast and you'll have to resit it again. Don't let that happen to your other exams though!