The validation process involves a lot of jumping through various hoops, the CAA will issue a 12 month validation which can then be extended once only, that everyone knew.
However, the extension is subject to you then proving you have enrolled on a course to convert, ie the ATPL writtens. This extension will be decided by the CAA when they speak to your training provider and reach a decision on how long they believe you will take to convert. Pilot Validation @ the CAA had one person who got their validation issued then said they wanted a three year extension, that was refused and they gave an 8 month extension.
Pilots should take a close look at Cap804 and Annex III page 529 - if you were enjoying life as a jet jockey captain and your experience doesn't fit the right box you will be lucky if they allow you a validation to sit in the Right seat!
The 12 month delay for this madness is stay of execution only. There's a lot of work to do to correct the numerous problems that exist.