From the BBC:

The pound has risen to its highest level against the dollar in three months, buoyed by a return to growth in the construction sector in January.

The Markit/CIPS UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index rose to 53.7 in January, beating forecasts of 49.9. A reading above 50 indicates growth.

In December, when heavy snow disrupted building work, the index read 49.1.

After the release of the data, sterling rose 0.5% on the day to $1.6232, its strongest since 5 November.

It also strengthened against the euro, rising 0.6% to 1.1741 euros.

More: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-12343459