Just an update - I built the same exact template with VE 6 and it loads more than 70% faster. Even in standlaone. Loading plugins, even moving buses or channels around takes forever. Engaging 32 outputs in cubase took over a minute, with VE6 took 10 seconds. It's pretty bad.
That would be in line with the earler automation lanes post. I will be going back to VEPro 6 for my next project.