New Zealand site Dominion Post is reporting that director Peter Jackson is secretly developing the fantasy novel series Mortal Engines, written by Phillip Reeve.

It was said by the site's industry sources that development on the first book of the series is underway, even stating that Weta is already working on designs for the series, which centers on a series of moving cities.

Jackson has had the movie rights to the novel series for some time, it was understood, and while a rep for Jackson wouldn't deny the project is in the works, but added that, "any comment should come from Peter."

We'll be sure to keep you posted on this potential new franchise for Jackson as soon as we have more information.