We're considering getting this L shaped granny annexe for the garden, essentially a self-contained studio flat with a bedroom, kitchenette, shower and toilet.
https://www.boothsgardenstudios.co.uk/case-studies/view/l-shape-garden-annexe
They're quoting about 72k all included - power, drainage, etc etc which is expensive but pretty reasonable compared to the other options I've looked at (mostly timber stuff), requires very little maintenance and does not require PP, and supposedly can be done under PD under something called the 'caravan act' as long as the 'caravan' depends on the main house for electricity, drainage etc. They've recommended that I speak to my council planning department to confirm the same.
The part in bold above is the most important for us as we've have PP declined for a brick-built granny annexe and that's the standard line taken by the council. No complaints, it's a reasonable approach to take and in hind-sight, it's probably for the best as that would have cost north of 90k (not including extras) and many months of waiting for a date.
Unhelpfully, our local council is simply refusing to deal with any PD enquiries "Our Planning Service is operating in the face of unprecedented challenges resulting from a significant increase in planning application submissions and a shortage of resource. Please do not submit any new Permitted Development Enquiries at this time.".
So my question is - is the bit in bold above correct? Has anyone managed to install a self-contained granny annexe in their garden without PP?