Mike,
I'm trying hard not to get very angry about this and I'm definitely not shooting the messenger!
Firstly, thanks for shedding a little light on the decodes, but in my view these should NEVER be visible to users. The codes were developed, like TAF and METAR codes, to satisfy a 70-yr-old communication system with extremely small bandwidth. Today, ALL these codes should be translated into plain language.
I'm an instructor. I've enough problems trying to teach students the 1:60 rule, explaining how NOTAM works so that they can self-brief before their first solo cross-countries is in my veiw an un-necessary hurdle. These complexities are the reason why so many PPLs never consult NOTAM before they set off on a trip. At our school, we've developed a narrow route brief to suit our local area that is refreshed and posted on the board daily; other users of the aerodrome are always welcome to come in and consult it and even ask an instructor for advice, FOR FREE! However, trying to explain what all the shameful gobbledegook means is a waste of time and effort.
I officiate at aerobatic competitions. We NOTAM the airspace as well as the aerodrome, but I'd say every comp we run is invaded by people bimbling through the box. We have procedures in place but inevitably having to stop mid-sequence ruins a competitor's concentration and their placing suffers as a result.
Mike, I believe that what we need is a plain-language system, not all in CAPITALS like the new site gives, which is easily accessible, showing all the relevant information for the planned route, without having to distinguish between aerodrome and airspace. Unfortunately I believe that the CAA will claim that they are required to follow Annex 15, which is outdated and designed for use by commercial air transport, not PPLs enjoying their recreation. I've got the 0500 number in my phone. I show it to everyone else and they are suprised at its existence. I understand that GASCo are shortly to re-distribute the stickers with the number on. Discussion was made about making the number more memorable, but unfortuantely it was considered 'too difficult'. I hope the above isn't too negative and thanks for giving us some representation re NOTAM.
TheOddOne.