After rather a long time putting it off, I've finally had the rear axle bushes replaced with the upgraded Fabia VRS ones. The ride is now so smooth and composed, I know for sure I'll be keeping this car for the missus.
We've had it nearly 5 years, spent a fair bit maintaining it, but man does it return some pleasant driving. I've driven a lot of other cars in this class, but even for a 11 year old car it is still performing admirably.