It's true it can be difficult and with good reason too but usually, if you have planning permission to build your own home on your own piece of land, the council generally don't refuse your application to live on site providing you meet all the criteria.
Also, there are some beautiful residential parks throughout Britain. Living this way is becoming a popular option for retired people. It means they can free up their capital, live comfortably and have money to spend. I think it's a great option.

I couldn't figure out how to search online for this type of static home 'residential park' in UK that you're talking about - what search words would I use to look this up? Do you know if there are any that are not geared just towards retirees?

I'll have a look, busy at the mo but will get back on here later. I'm not a retiree but I'll be staying in one for a few weeks with no problem.
Try looking up residential static home parks.

try searching "pikey"

Here you go, this link has most of the info including an email address.


http://www.staticsuk.com/

We've also been looking at narrowboats. I love the new modern styles and they are a popular living accommodation option too. Must be the gypsy in me but I love the idea of living light and having more free time to do what I enjoy.

well I thought it was funny