Apparently it is a downtown area (5,4)

I believe the answer is:

inner city

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'area' is the definition.
(I know that inner city is a type of center)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for inner city that I've seen before include "In run-down area" , "Urban sprawl" , "Urban centre" , "Centre of conurbation" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times and The Sunday Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.