I have had a CAA PPL(A) for 25 years or so. Were it not for the fact that I also have a PPL(H) and need the Class 2 medical for that, I would swap to an NPPL without hesitation. Day VFR in the UK suits me fine as I have no wish to ever fly abroad. As I am on annual medicals the hassle reduction would be very well worth it irrespective of the cost.
Consequently I am of the opinion that the NPPL is an excellent innovation and far from a waste of time.