I'm not sure about doing it in a non radar environment, but with radar monitoring and positive descent control from ATC it is perfectly allowable and I permit it on a daily basis.
The crew position the flight to wherever they want to intercept the loc and I give descent to an appropriate safe level.
The only time I've ever done it in a non radar environment was after the radar failed and the particular a/c was on a base leg and was happy to self position to intercept at their current level. If they hadn't been then it weould be all the extra miles to the beacon and then the procedure.