They are demolishing the 'west pier' after being told it was the best option, rather than bolting the new bit onto it. Maybe Laing have now said it would be the best option for the whole structure?
As for the 'T3' plan, yes, it was one of 6 options in the first consultations, but after many, many, many meetings, feedback and other gubbins, it's apparently back on the table with some slight alterations, but can only begin after T1 is gone.