Hi there,
I suggest you also read the myriad of other similar topics here for more insight than a mere mortal like I can provide but to be short and swift :
1. As far as I'm aware recruitment has been frozen this year - but for one year only.
2. Yes definitely. Your aviation experience would be invaluable but I have to say that not many of the ATCO intake hold any sort of licence or have any sort of previous experience. So if you don't havw one I wouldn't worry. If you do, it will certainly help a little in at least getting you to the testing and interview stage.
3. Quick is not good
Nor is ATC the type of job you could so solely for the money. It can be more of a lifestyle than a job at times. The NATS route is probably the best way to go at the moment and pays very well even during training, comparitively anyhow.
Hope this helps in some way