Genuinely what has happened to the city centre?

Can someone give me a rundown on why the city centre feels like it's gone down the gutter? Whats your opinion?

Went in for a date night with the wife (haven't been into the city in over a year) and damn it felt different. I know times are tough but I didn't expect the crazy amount of businesses to be shut down it's so sad! So many dodgy folk around as well. First time I've felt uneasy in the city.

I was in the Victoria St/queen st area. And yes you can treat me as an ignorant muppet as I haven't kept up with the news in a wee while.