I think getting rid of them without a suitable alternative is not a good idea.
As a PPL, I've used WCO, BUR (when SVFR in the LHR zone), LIC to avoid bumping into controlled airspace at East Midlands when traveling in the corridor between Birmingham and East Midlands. This particular one is goo as it has a good range unlike most of the otehr with a typical 10-15NM range.
If they had to go, a VOR in its place would be ideal but I can't see that happening realistically.
Even if flying VFR, I'd be surprised if people flew using dead reckoning on longer trips - I'm not saying it can't be done and we should be qualified to do that , but beacon bashing is so much easier and reduces the risk of getting lost or infringing controlled airspace.
Not all of us have or use GPS.