Get started on exams soonest
Just a few bits of advice from my experience. I have used Bristol Ground school twice and found them excellent on both occasions. I would also consider getting your PPL(A) as soon as possible and building your hours with a military flying club (cheaper). Not sure what clubs there are in the land of the 40kt fog but for example I have hours built at £90 an hour wet. You want to make maximum use of your SLC too. £175 is a couple of hours towards the goal.
On the subject of Merlin hours, the Merlin 2 doesnt count towards an MCC credit (which is rubbish but that's what is in CAP804 page 523).
You can also use 100 hrs of heli PIC time towards your CPL(A) minimums.
You might also want to get your IR(R) on your PPL(A) (5hr course) and build some hours because you can then get to IR(A) (competency based) with only a 10 hr course.
Good luck with making your exit.