Firstly, before I do anything I'll wait until I get an official response from London on my file. Everyone's case is different so there's no point doing anything until you get an official communication on your own case.
I've sent a case specific query as I'm over the 8 months. If I get a reply similar to the above then I am going to re-apply/find alternative options because you might as well forget about your current application if they send you that email. Alternatively if they send something that gives the impression that my file is going somewhere then I will stick with it. However, it doesn't look promising given the fact that nothing has been happening with post 2008 applications for a while now, and it seems applicants under the new guidelines are being prioritised.
One thing I am unclear on - is it possible to leave your current application open and also re-apply under the new guidelines. In effect, have 2 applications on the go under different guidelines?